with the Drums? Would the Band go to the Front? How many of the
Drums would accompany the Regiment?

They took counsel together, sitting in a tree and smoking.

"It's more than a bloomin' toss-up they'll leave us be'ind at the
Depot with the women. You'll like that," said Jakin sarcastically.

"Cause o' Cris, y' mean? Wot's a woman, or a 'ole bloomin' depot
o' women, 'longside o' the chanst of field-service? You know I'm
as keen on goin' as you," said Lew.

"Wish I was a bloomin' bugler," said Jakin sadly. "They'll take
Tom Kidd along, that I can plaster a wall with, an' like as not
they won't take us."

"Then let's go an' make Tom Kidd so bloomin' sick 'e can't bugle
no more. You 'old 'is 'ands an' I'll kick him," said Lew,
wriggling on the branch.

"That ain't no good neither. We ain't the sort o' characters to
presoom on our rep'tations - they're bad. If they have the Band at
the Depot we don't go, and no error there. If they take the Band
we may get cast for medical unfitness. Are you medical fit,
Piggy?" said Jakin, digging Lew in the ribs with force.

"Yus," said Lew with an oath. "The Doctor says your 'eart's weak
through smokin' on an empty stummick. Throw a chest an' I'll try
yer."