Two days later the regiment was paraded, but no order had been received for their start, and their destination was still uncertain.

The officers stood in a group, awaiting the arrival of the colonel, who entered, accompanied by Colonel Wauchop and several other Irish officers.

As there had been no notice of an official inspection, there was a general feeling of surprise at the appearance of the visitors.

The colonel rode up to the group of officers.
"Gentlemen," he said, "I must ask you all to accompany me to the common room.

I have news of importance to give you." He and those with him dismounted, and, followed by the wondering officers of the regiment, went into the large room where they gathered in the evening.
"The news that I am about to give you is of an important and happy nature.