It was the only latch in camp, and I was very proud of it, and the officers always clicked it as loudly as possible, in order to gratify my feelings.

The door opened, and the Quartermaster thrust in the most beaming face I ever saw.
"Colonel," said he, "there are great news for the regiment.

My wife and baby are coming by the next steamer!" "Baby!" said I, in amazement.

"Q.

M., you are beside yourself." (We always called the Quartermaster Q.M.for shortness.) "There was a pass sent to your wife, but nothing was ever said about a baby.