"I couldn't imagine what was coming upon me," said Mr. Ringgan,
cheerfully, "for you weren't anywhere very near my thoughts; and I
don't often see much of the gay world that is passing by me. You have
grown since I saw you last, Mr. Rossitur. You are studying at West
Point, I believe."

"No sir; I _was_ studying there, but I had the pleasure of bringing that
to an end last June."

"Ah!--Well, what are you now? Not a cadet any longer, I suppose."

"No sir--we hatch out of that shell lieutenants."

"Hum.--And do you intend to remain in the army?"

"Certainly sir, that is my purpose and hope."

"Your mother would not like that, I should judge. I do not understand how
she ever made up her mind to let you become that thing which hatches out
into a lieutenant. Gentle creatures she and her sister both were.--How was
it, Mr. Rossitur? were you a wild young gentleman that wanted training?"

"I have had it sir, whether I wanted it or no."

"Hum!--How is he, Mr. Carleton?--sober enough to command men?"

"I have not seen him tried, sir," said this gentleman smiling; "but from
tho inconsistency of the orders he issues to his dogs I doubt it
exceedingly."