"You have done the right thing, I am sure. That officers'
training-school is a good place to get a practical education. When
you are through, how would you like to have a post in the Ordnance
Department at Washington? I have some influence there and believe
I could get you in without difficulty."

"Thanks, a lot," answered the lad modestly. "You're awfully kind.
But, if you don't mind my saying so, I think I'd rather have service
at the front--that is, if I can qualify for it."

There was another long silence before Hardman spoke again, with an
apparent change of subject:

"I wish you would tell me what you really think of your uncle's
views on the classics, you and the other fellows of your age in
the university."

Dick hesitated a moment before he replied:

"Well, personally, you know, I believe what Uncle says is usually
about right. He has the habit of it. But I allow when he gets
on his hobby he rides rather hard. Most of the other fellows have
given up the classics--they like the modern-language course with
sciences better--perhaps it's softer. They say not; but I know
the classics are hard enough. I flunked out on my Greek exam junior
year. So, you see, I'm not a very good judge. But, anyhow, wasn't
the bit he read us from Juvenal simply fine? And didn't he read
it well? I've felt that a hundred times, but never knew how to say
it."