where his troops were stationed, ordered them to assemble for
inspection. But incompetent leadership had played havoc with the
discipline of the regiment, and the men shambled from their tents
without any attempt at military formation, more from curiosity than
in obedience to orders.

The new Colonel stepped to the front, wearing a rusty suit of
civilian's clothes, his trousers tucked into his dusty boots, a
battered hat on his head, a bandanna handkerchief tied around his
waist in place of a sash and carrying a stick in place of a sword.
Altogether he presented a most unimpressive figure and it would
not have been surprising if a wild guffaw of laughter had greeted
him, but the troops, studying his strong, calm face, contented
themselves with calling for a speech. Then they waited in silence
for his response and they did not have to wait long.

"Men!" he commanded sharply. "Go to your quarters!"

The regiment fairly gasped its astonishment. It had never heard
a speech like that before and, taken completely by surprise, it
moved quietly from the field.

Sentries were instantly posted, camp limits established and
preparations made for enforcing strict discipline. It was not to
be supposed that such prompt reforms would pass unchallenged, but
arrests followed the first signs of disobedience and punishment
swiftly followed the arrests.

"For every minute I'm kept here I'll have an ounce of your blood!"
threatened a dangerous offender whom the Colonel had ordered to be