It is certain that he would not have been chosen to carry the despatches--a duty which is regarded as a reward of the most distinguished service--unless he had done something of marked importance." The two French officers on leaving the palace at once went off to pay their respects in the first place to the heads of their families, and afterwards to visit the various circles and coteries with which they were connected, and where they would be sure of a flattering welcome and attentive listeners.

Hector, for his part, rode direct to the quarters of the colonel of the Scottish regiment.

A soldier came out and took the bridle of his horse as he saluted, while a sergeant asked what name he should announce.
"Then you do not remember me, Sergeant Macfarlane ?" The soldier looked at him earnestly.

"Why," he exclaimed suddenly, "it's Hector Campbell!" "Right enough, sergeant." "You have changed mightily, sir; you were but a laddie when you went away nigh four years ago.

The news came to the regiment that you had been made a captain, and proud we all were.