As he was not now in uniform, Lisle kept carefully out of sight when General Gatacre's force marched in, which it did very shortly after Colonel Kelly's arrival.

This was probably unnecessary caution for, in addition to Mr.Robertson, there were two or three other civilians in the garrison; but he was desirous of escaping observation until General Low, who would arrive next day, should have heard of his escapade.
At mess, however, several officers of General Gatacre's force dined with the regiment; who had exerted themselves to the utmost to provide a banquet for their guests.

Most of these had, at one time or other, been cantoned with the Pioneers.

Two or three of the junior officers were introduced to the newcomers, among them Lisle.
"This gentleman," the colonel said, "is Mr.Lisle Bullen, son of the late Captain Bullen; who you have doubtless heard was killed, some little time ago, while storming a hill fort.

He is at present acting as temporary lieutenant of my regiment." The officers looked with some surprise at Lisle's still darkened face.
"I see you are surprised, gentlemen," the colonel said, "but there is a tale that hangs to that colour.