"I've just time, Colonel to catch Mr. Prescott before the drill
squads go out. Corporal of the guard!" hailed the O.C., looking
out from his tent.

In another moment a very erect young member of the guard was striding
around the head of the encampment, and then down one of the company
streets. Dick, in front of his tent, in field uniform, received
the summons and responded at once.

"Caught him!" quivered Bert Dodge. "No if that infernal humbug
will get hot-headed and answer the O.C. rashly, there may be something
good coming in the punishment line! It would be a source of wild
joy if I could get Dick Prescott on the wrong flank with the tacs.!"

The instant that Dick reported, and found himself in the presence
of his two inquisitors of the night before, he knew that some
hint of his new knowledge must have reached the tactical department.

"Mr. Prescott, last night," began Captain Bates, "you denied
absolutely having any knowledge as to the persons who set off
firecrackers near Battle Monument."

"Yes, sir."

"I have since gained good reason to think," went on the O.C., "that
you know who at least one of the perpetrators was."

Mr. Prescott remained silent.