CHAPTER 1.II.
John was recalled, of course, before the end of our furlough, which knocked various things on the head; but that is the sort of thing one learned to take with philosophy in any lengthened term of Her Majesty's service.

Besides, there is usually sugar for the pill; and in this case it was a Staff command bigger than anything we expected for at least five years to come.

The excitement of it when it was explained to her gave Cecily a charming colour.

She took a good deal of interest in the General, her papa; I think she had an idea that his distinction would alleviate the situation in India, however it might present itself.

She accepted that prospective situation calmly; it had been placed before her all her life.