"But I've a hunch that every other regiment is striving for the
same honor," Captain Holmes continued. "Ours isn't the only K.O.
who covets the honor of commanding the best regiment of 'em all."

"It can be done," Dick insisted, "and I say it must be done."

"Yet other regiments would be so close to us in excellence that
it would be hard to name the one that is really best."

"In that case we wouldn't have won the honor," Dick smilingly
insisted.

"Then consider that fellow Cartwright," Greg added, lowering his
voice a bit. "He's a born shirker, and one weak company would make
a regiment that much poorer."

"If Cartwright shirks, then mark my word that he'll be dropped,"
Dick rejoined quickly. "But Greg, man, this is war-time, and
the biggest and most serious war in which we were ever engaged.
There must be no doubts---no ifs or buts. We must have a regiment
one hundred per cent. perfect. I'm going to do my share with
a company one hundred percent. good, even if I don't find time
for any sleep."

Up the corridor there sounded a knock at a door. Something was
said in a low voice. Then the knock was repeated on Prescott's
door.

"Come in!" called Dick.