as a soldier (the young lieutenant's voice rang, and his eyes flashed) called on your obedience to your officer, and a suppression of such language. However, for this time I will pardon; but I assure you, should that ever be repeated, I will answer your ingratitude and punish your disobedience by instant death."
John Brown had shrunk and whitened.
"Yes, sir," he faltered. "Thank you, sir. I'll remember. It shan't happen again."
"You may go." The lieutenant's eyes left Brown's face and traveled over the other men. "I take this opportunity," he said, "likewise to express to you, soldiers, generally, my thanks for your obedience, perseverance, and ready contempt of every danger, which you have in common shown. And I assure you that nothing shall be lacking on my part to procure you the rewards of our Government and the gratitude of your countrymen."
"Three cheers for the cap'n, lads," shouted Sergeant Meek. "Hooray, now! Hooray! Hooray!"
"We're with you to the end, sir!"
"We're not complainin', sir. No more is Brown."
"You're the leader, sir, and we're proud to follow."
"Sure, you an' the doctor do the hard work."
