When a man performs brave deeds, he must be expected to be patted on the back--metaphorically, at any rate--by the ladies.

So you have got to go through it all and, as I have sent word round that I shall bring you to my bungalow, you will be able to get it all over at once." "Well, sir, I suppose I must do it, though I would much rather not.
Still, as you say, it were best to get it all over at once." Six ladies were gathered at the bungalow, as Lisle entered with the colonel.

All rose as they entered, and pressed round him, shaking his hand.
"I have come to tell you how pleased we all were," the colonel's wife said, "to hear that you had returned, and how eager we have all been to learn how it has come about.

We think it very unkind of you to stay so long in the mess room, when you must have known that we are all on thorns to hear about it.

I can assure you that we have missed you terribly, since the regiment returned, and we are awfully glad to have you back again.
"Now, please tell us all about it.