old of manhood. You will ask me
what we can do. Let me remind you that when the war broke out the great
want was, not of volunteers, but of men trained to military exercises.
Our regiments were at first composed wholly of raw recruits. In Europe,
military instruction is given as a matter of course; and in Germany, and
perhaps other countries, young men are obliged to serve for a time in
the army.

"I think we ought to profit by the lessons of experience. However the
present war may turn out, we cannot be certain that other wars will not
at some time break out. By that time we shall have grown to manhood, and
the duty of defending our country in arms will devolve upon us. Should
that time come, let it not find us unprepared. I propose that we
organize a military company among the boys, and meet for drill at
such times as we may hereafter agree upon. I hope that any who feel
interested in the matter will express their opinions freely."

Frank sat down, and a number of the boys testified their approbation by
stamping with their feet.

John Haynes rose, with a sneer upon his face.

"I would humbly inquire, Mr. Chairman, for you appear to have assumed
that position, whether you intend to favor us with your valuable
services as drillmaster."

Frank rose, with a flushed face.

"I am glad to be reminded of one thing, which I had forgotten," he said.
"As this is a meeting for the transaction of business, it is proper that
it should be regularly organized. Will some one nominate a chairman?"

"Frank Frost!" exclaimed half a dozen voices.

"I thank you for the nomination," said Frank, "but as I have something
further to communicate to the meeting, it will be better to select some
one else."

"I nominate Charles Reynolds," said one voice.

"Second the motion," said another.

"Those who are in favor of Charles Reynolds, as chairman of this
meeting, will please signify it in the usual manner," said Frank.

Charles Reynolds, being declared duly elected, advanced to the teacher's
chair.

"Mr. Chairman," said Frank, "I will now answer the question just put
to me. I do not propose to offer my services as drill-master, but I am
authorized to say that a gentleman whom you have all seen, Mr. Henry
Morton, is willing to give instruction till you are sufficiently
advanced to get along without it."

John Haynes, who felt disappointed at not having been called upon
to preside over the meeting, determined to make as much troubl