called, loudly enough for all the company to hear. "Let every
man call his own number instantly and clearly. For instance,
when one man has called 'two' let the man at his left call 'three'
without a second's delay. In the way of good soldiering this
is more important than most of you new men realize. Lieutenant
Terry!"

"Sir," the first lieutenant responded, stepping forward, saluting.

"Take the company. Drill in dressings, facings, the manual of
arms, wheeling and marching by twos and fours."

Then, stepping to one side, Prescott let his gaze rove over the
company, from one file or rank to another. Everything that was
done badly he noted. Presently, when the men were standing at
ease he related his observations to Lieutenant Noll Terry, who
thereupon gave the company further instruction.

Finally, when the company started across the drill ground in column
of fours, Dick walked briskly into the barracks building, going
to the company office, whither Sergeant Kelly had preceded him.
Kelly, and a corporal and private who were there on clerical duty,
rose and stood at attention as the captain entered.

"Rest," Dick commanded briefly, whereupon the corporal and the
private returned to the desk at which they were working, while
Dick crossed to the sergeant's desk. Seating himself there he
gave close attention to the papers that Sergeant Kelly handed
him. Such as required signature Captain Prescott signed. Then,
for fifteen minutes, he busied himself with requisitions for clothing