Just as if we weren't as good as any of them!" was the bitter comment.
"Without reply, Ridge turned towards the place where he had left his blanket roll, only to encounter another shock to his recent pride.

An officer met him.
"Hello! What troop do you belong to ?" he asked, suspiciously.
"Troop K, sir," answered Ridge, saluting.
"I thought so.

What are you doing here ?" "I was ordered ashore." "Humph! Without any reason at all, I suppose." Ridge remained silent.
"Oh, well, if you don't choose to tell why you are in disgrace you needn't, but you may report to the cook of the officers' mess, who is in need of an assistant." Here was a dilemma.

Ridge could not, of course, obey this order, since every moment was precious.

To disobey would cause his arrest and detention in the guard-house.