"Two of my majors are going to share the meal." As soon as the valises were brought up, Desmond changed his uniform, got rid of the dust of the road, and was just ready when a servant knocked at the door and said that the supper was served.
The meal was a pleasant one.

The three French officers were anxious to hear the last news that had reached Madrid from France.
The conversation did not flag for a moment during the meal.
After this was over, and cigars were lighted--for the officers had all adopted the custom of the country--the colonel said courteously, "Would you mind telling us, Major Kennedy, how it is that you, who by your name are Irish, although you speak excellent French, have made your way so rapidly as to be already a major ?" "Not at all, Colonel.

I am, myself, as much surprised at it as you may be.

But, really, my present rank is only temporary.

I am going down to Badajos, on a special mission for the Duke of Orleans, and as he thought that I should be received better were I a field officer, instead of captain, he has given me the temporary rank of major while so employed.
"I will briefly tell you how I obtained the other steps.