It was delightful to think that I was going with the men.

I had no batman and no real standing with the unit with which I was travelling.

However, I did not let this worry me.

I got a friend to carry my kit-bag, and then covering myself with haversacks, till I looked, as the men said, like a Christmas tree, I made my way to the ship with a broad grin of satisfaction on my face.

As I went up the gangway so attired and looking exceedingly pleased with myself, my appearance excited the suspicion of the officer in command of the ship, who was watching the troops come on board.