"I could never quite understand the eagerness of young officers to get
into civilian clothing," he confessed reflectively. "Why, I haven't
even had a suit for ten years. However, I can see no necessity for
your proclaiming your identity on the trip down. Indeed, it may prove
the safer course, and technically I presume you may be considered as on
furlough. Travel as you please, Lieutenant, but I suggest it will be
well to wear the uniform of your rank when you deliver the letters. Is
that all?"

"I think of nothing more."

Fifteen minutes sufficed to gather together all my belongings, and
change from blue into gray, and, as I emerged from quarters, the
officers of the garrison flocked about me with words of congratulation
and innumerable questions. Universal envy of my good fortune was
evident, but this assumed no unpleasant form, although much was said to
express their belief in my early return.

"Anyway, you are bound to wish you were back," exclaimed Hartley, the
senior captain, earnestly. "For we are going to be in the thick of it
here in less than a month, unless all signs fail. I was at that last
council, and I tell you that Sac devil means to fight."

"You may be certain I shall be back if he does," I answered. "But the
Major seems to believe that peace is still possible."

"No one really knows what he believes," insisted Hartley soberly.
"Those letters you carry south may contain the truth, but if I was in
command here we would never take the chances we do now. Look at those