After all, in every department, this war is a young man's job." "Of course," said Barry.

"If I went as chaplain, it would be in your unit, dad, and that would be altogether glorious." "I do hope so.

But we must not allow that, however, to influence our decision," replied his father.
"I know, I know!" hurriedly agreed Barry.

"I trust I would not be unduly influenced by personal considerations." This hope, however, was rudely dashed by an unexpected call for a draft of recruits from Captain Neil's company that came through from Colonel Kavanagh to replace a draft suddenly dispatched to make up to strength another western regiment.

Attached to the call there was a specific request, which amounted to a demand for the sergeant major, for whose special qualifications as physical and military instructor there was apparently serious need in Colonel Kavanagh's regiment.
With great reluctance, and with the expenditure of considerable profanity, Captain Neil Fraser dispatched his draft and agreed to the surrender of his sergeant major.
The change came as a shock to both Barry and his father.