AT THE STAFF OFFICERS' BALL


THE young officer glanced up hastily at sound of approaching footsteps,
and rose to his feet to permit of my passage. He wore the full dress
uniform of an artilleryman, and his evident surprise at my presence
made me realize the necessity of addressing him.

"Lieutenant," I asked courteously, resting one hand easily upon the
balustrade, "could you inform me if General Sheridan and those members
of the staff who accompanied him down the lines this afternoon have yet
returned?"

"They have not, sir."

"Ah, I was in hopes they might have arrived by this time. I see that
you belong to my branch of the service. May I inquire your battery?"

He flushed with pleasure at the delicate flattery of my tone, and in
true soldierly pride of his corps.

"B, Fifth New Jersey, sir."

"I think I remember them in action--no better command in the service.
You were at Gettysburg?"

"On Seminary Ridge, sir. It was my first battle."

"A hard baptism of fire, indeed, yet a remembrance you will long be
proud to recall. I thank you for your courtesy."