Here and there a bird twittered gently in the trees along the walks; and after a time music came again and again, for four bands now were stationed at the four corners of the Parade.

(And always the music began of war and deeds, and always it ended in some soft love strain.) Groups gathered now upon the balconies near the marquees which rose upon the Parade.

Couples strolled arm in arm.

The scene spoke little enough of war's alarms or of life's battles and its sadness.
A carriage passed with two gentlemen, and drew up at the Officers' Club.
"Billy Williams, adjutant," commented Captain Stevenson lazily.

"Who's the other ?" "Yes, who's the tall one ?" asked Kitty, as the gentlemen descended from the carriage.