He would snatch it out of your hand, grit his teeth, and say, "D--n it;" feel in his vest pocket and take out a lead pencil, and simply write "app." for approved.
This would also be returned, with instructions that the colonel must write "approved" in a plain hand, and with pen and ink.

Then it went to the brigadier-general.

He would be engaged in a game of poker, and would tell you to call again, as he didn't have time to bother with those small affairs at present.

"I'll see your five and raise you ten." "I have a straight flush." "Take the pot." After setting him out, and when it wasn't his deal, I get up and walk around, always keeping the furlough in sight.

After reading carefully the furlough, he says, "Well, sir, you have failed to get the adjutant's name to it.