I will have a talk with him, and maybe I can be of some assistance to you." So saying, he touched his horse's flank with his heel and rode on, while the boys continued their play.

The next afternoon the lad remained at home, to the surprise of the sergeant.
"What keeps you in today, Hector?
It is rare indeed that you are indoors in the afternoon." "An officer came along while we were playing," the lad said, "and asked me some questions.

I told him who I was.

He said that he had some influence, and might be able to assist me." "What sort of assistance ?" the sergeant grumbled.

"He must have influence indeed if he can get you a pension." "I don't think it was that," the boy said.