They have no rank to speak of, few privileges, are always expected to do the agreeable to visitors (and they do it), obliged to give up their quarters at a moment's notice, take the duties nobody else wants, be cheerful under all conditions, and ready for anything.

It is an exception when a second lieutenant is not dear and fascinating.

As for these two, I am doubly fond of them, for their fathers were army men before them, and old-time friends of ours.

George I knew as a little lad in Washington.

I must tell you of an adventure of his, that shows what a sterling fellow he is." Mary heard only part of the anecdote, for at the same time Kitty was telling an uproariously funny joke on Ranald, and all the rest were laughing.