He wasted no time in words, but went at once to Sergeant Whitley, who was ready in five minutes.

Warner, who heard of the mission, was disappointed because he was not going too.

But he was philosophical.
"I've made a close calculation," he said, "and I have demonstrated to my own satisfaction that our opportunities are sixty per cent energy and ability, twenty per cent manners, and twenty per cent chance.

In this case chance, which made the Colonel better acquainted with you than with me, was in your favor.

We won't discuss the other eighty per cent, because this twenty is enough.