"Alas! no: the debts were too heavy.

Archibald is in the Army, but he has enlisted as a private, in the 105th, the North Wilts Regiment.

His father advised it: he says that, in these days, commissions are to be won by young men content to begin in the ranks; and the lad has (I believe) a good friend in Colonel Festonhaugh, who commands the North Wilts.

He and Arthur are old comrades in arms.

But garrison life does not suit the poor boy, or so he complains.