had her cadet friends. She was but a shade taller, somewhat rounder,
and much more womanly in an undefinable way. She was sweeter
looking in all ways---Dick recognized that much at a glance.
Her eyes rested upon him, and then more briefly upon Greg, in
utter friendliness free from coquetry.

"Can't you get excused and take us over to dress parade?" asked
Belle.

Dick turned to look more closely at Miss Meade. Yes; she, too,
was changed, and wholly for the better as far as charm of appearance
and manner went. Both girls had lost the schoolgirl look. They
were, indeed, women, even if very young ones.

"We can hardly get excused from any duty," Dick smiled. "But
to-day---a most unusual thing---there is no dress parade."

"No parade?" exclaimed Mrs. Bentley in a tone of disappointment.

"No; the officers are entertaining some distinguished outside
visitors at Cullum Hall this afternoon, and the band is over at
Cullum," Greg explained.

"I am so sorry," murmured Mrs. Bentley.

"But you will be here until the close of tomorrow afternoon?"
asked Dick eagerly.

"We had planned to go away about eleven in the forenoon," replied
Mrs. Bentley.