e world over, "The Last Post," ending with that last, high,
long-drawn, heart-piercing note of farewell.

Then, because the war was yet to be won, they "carried on," the
battalion marching away to a merry tune.

Beside Barry's grave there still lingered three men, the divisional
commander, Major Bayne, and Captain Neil.

"I am thinking of that little girl in London," said the divisional
commander, and for the first time his voice broke. The others waited,
looking at him. "We will hold back this news for a couple of days, and I
think, major, you ought to go and--"

"No, general!--My God, no! Don't ask me!" The major was profoundly
agitated. "Send Neil, here. He knows her well, and his wife is her great
friend."

"Very well, major, I think that will be better," said the general in his
courteous, gentle voice. "You know her, Captain Fraser, and you can be
better spared."

And so it was arranged. Captain Neil telegraphed Paula to meet him at
Boulogne, and together they made the journey to London, carrying with
them sad and fearful hearts.

They found Phyllis in a little flat which her mother had taken. When
she saw them her face went white, and her hands flew to her bosom.
Speechless, and with a great fear in her wide-open brown eyes, she stood
looking from one to the other, waiting for their message. Paula went to
her and without a word put her arms round her, and held her close.

"I know, Paula," she said, putting her gently away from her. "I know
what you have to tell me. Barry is dead. My dear love is dead!" Her
voice was tender, soft and low. "Don't fear to tell me, Neil," she said.
"See, I am quite steady." She put out her hand that he might see that
there was no tremour in it.

"Sit down, darling," besought Paula, again winding her arms about her.

"No, no, let me stand, Paula dear. See, I am quite strong. Now tell me
about it, Neil--all about it. You were his dear friend, you know."

Her voice, so sweet, so soft, so perfectly controlled, helped Captain
Neil with his task. It seemed an offence that he should intrude any
exhibition of grief or emotion upon the serene calm of this young girl,
standing so straight, so proud, and regarding him with such brave eyes.

Then Captain Neil told his tale. He began with the last service upon the
Parade Ground before the battalion moved into action. He told of Barry's
bitter disappointment, and of their relief that he was not allowed to
accompany them to the front l