I suppose that no intimation has been received as to what is our destination and whither we shall march ?" "None whatever, colonel," de Thiou, the senior captain, said.
"All the better.

I hope that they will give us a couple of months to get into shape.

There is but little time for drill and discipline when we are once in the field." So saying he saluted the officers and returned to the hotel.
"Who would have thought of seeing a mere lad placed at the head of the regiment as colonel," one of the captains said.

"I cannot imagine how such a thing can have come about, for certainly he can have no family influence.

A newly raised regiment like ours wants a bright man, one that all can look up to and respect." "I fancy that you will find that this young gentleman will be respected," de Thiou said.