It was evident from their manner that he was a popular figure among them.

Several of the younger girls addressed him as "Dick," and asked him to send them trophies from the front.

The young officer held his own amongst them with laughing self-possession.

When he had taken his farewell of them he approached Miss Heredith, and held out his hand with a deferential politeness which contrasted rather noticeably with the easy familiarity of his previous leave-taking.
"I am sorry you are compelled to leave us, Captain Nepcote," said Miss Heredith, rising with dignity to accept his outstretched hand.

"Do you return immediately to the front ?" "To-night, I expect." "I trust you will return safely to your native land before long, crowned with victory and glory." Captain Nepcote bowed in some embarrassment.