n at his club until well into the small hours the Army officer,
with his next day of arduous duty ahead of him, usually leaves his club
between nine and ten in the evening, if not much earlier.

Major Tipton then led the young officers to the bachelor house,
explaining that he had assigned them quarters upstairs, as they would
find them much pleasanter than the downstairs rooms.

The two sets of quarters proved to be facing each other, Hal's on the
east side, Noll's on the west side. Each set consisted of a parlor and
bedroom, with bath and dressing-room adjoining.

"There's room enough here, sir, to start married life in," smiled
Lieutenant Overton.

"Have you that bee buzzing about you?" asked the major, giving him a
keen glance.

"Not in the least, sir."

"I have arranged for two excellent men to act as your strikers,"
continued the commanding officer. "Their selection is, of course,
subject to your approval. At Fort Butler an officer pays a striker eight
dollars a month."

The two lieutenants expressed their thanks. While they were still
inspecting their quarters two private soldiers came up with the baggage
from the railway station.

"I'll take my leave, now, and give you time to dress," said the major,
rising. "I shall be at the club during the noon-time to-day, and will
introduce you to such of the officers as may be present."

Both young officers saluted as their commander withdrew.

"Now we've got to hustle," admonished Hal. "We'll have a lot to do."

"I'm busy," affirmed Noll, rising and making for the door to go to his
own quarters.

Hardly had the door closed when a knock came. Another knock could be
heard at Noll's door.

"Come in," called Hal, and a young private entered, saluting.

"Major Tipton arranged with me to serve as your striker, sir, until you
make some other arrangement," reported the soldier.

"You've come at just the right moment, then," answered Hal. "Your name?"

"Ellis, sir."

"Very good, Ellis. Unpack my trunk and bags in the bedroom. I'm going
into my bath."

"Very good, sir."

Catching up clean underclothing Lieutenant Hal retired to the bathroom.
Completing his toilet with soldierly speed, the youthful lieutenant
opened the door into his parlor.

Private Ellis arose, standing at attention.

Hal tarried only long enough to note that the striker had placed his
swords in a corner, and that his revolver, belt and ammunition box lay
on the desk.

"Ellis has done