that the Mexican rebels are making the village an American headquarters
for the insurrection. It will be your duty, Captain, to see that no
armed parties or cargoes of munitions of war get across the river. You
will very likely find that Mexican troops are stationed on the opposite
side of the river. If you so find, you will act in harmony, as far as
you can, with the commander of the Mexican troops."

"Very good, Major."

"I have already sent the guard to notify the first sergeants of F and H
companies to turn out the second platoons of each company. You now have
your orders in full, Captain."

"Very good, sir."

The three officers saluted their commander and withdrew. No word was
spoken as the three crossed the parade ground, going toward barracks.

Outside a lot of soldiers had already appeared, many of them looking
decidedly drowsy. But there were no complaints. "Kickers" are never
popular in the Army.

"Ranking sergeants of each platoon report here," called Captain Foster
quietly, as he halted. "You will be prepared for assembly and roll call
within forty-five minutes. Immediately afterwards the command will
march. Any further orders you will take from your respective platoon
commanders."

With a nod to Hal and Noll, Captain Foster strode away toward the
quartermaster stables, to see how near ready the escort wagons and their
loads might be.

"Keep the two platoons apart," ordered Hal, going over to the men. "We
want to know which platoon is ready for duty first. Sergeant Raney, go
back into barracks and see what is detaining the absentees."

"Sergeant Klein, you will also look up your missing ones," directed
Noll.

Both non-coms and men worked faster after that. Hal and Noll had served
long enough in the ranks to know that some drowsy men might remain
behind as long as possible, dozing in some corner.

As soon as it was discovered that both lieutenants were keenly alert to
their duties, greater speed was shown in assembling the men. Five
minutes later all the soldiers had turned out, ready. Some of the men in
Hal's platoon began to shoulder their blanket rolls.

"Leave your blanket rolls on the ground," directed Hal, stepping over to
his men. "It is a warm night, and there's no need of carrying weight
until you have to."

Captain Foster soon returned, having satisfied himself that work with
the escort wagons was progressing rapidly.

"All the men of my platoon are out, sir, and ready to move," H