His inspection of the section billet was carried out with a thoroughness hitherto unheard of. He directed Corporal Greenstock's attention to a hole in the roof with an air of faint reproof which suggested that a really efficient N.C.O. would have remedied such defects without being told; after which the usually imperturbable corporal, losing his nerve entirely, followed his platoon commander round the billet agitatedly explaining away defects before the officer had time to criticise. Sergeant Lees, who was accustomed with the ordinary subaltern to act as spokesman and master of the ceremonies, hung about anxiously in the offing. Even he was plainly feeling the strain of living up to this super-efficient new officer. Bill began to understand why he had seemed to have "something on his mind."
As Mr. Stockley concluded his examination and turned to go, his eye rested on Alf and Bill.
"Two men here I don't know, sergeant," he said. "Names, please."
"Higgins and Grant, sir."
"Where from?"
"Leave, sir."
"Umph! Corporal!!"
"Sir!"
Corporal Greenstock's attitude of attention might well have been photographed and used as a model for recruits.