many thousands of
spectators, show in graphic splendor the work of all the different
branches of the military service.

It is the experience of the War Department that each tournament, if held
under conditions that will draw a huge crowd of spectators, always
results in a rush of the most desirable recruits for the Army.

Soldiers always take a keen interest in these tournaments. It means to
them the excitement of travel and change, and the prospect of winning
applause that is so dear to the average human heart.

It also means, for men of known good conduct, a welcome amount of leave
to wander about the big city on the outskirts of which the tournament is
held. There are many other reasons why men of the Regular Army always
welcome these affairs.

All four of the companies at Fort Clowdry were to go to Denver, save for
a detail of ten men from each company, who were to be left behind to
guard government property at the fort.

"Hinkey," announced Captain Cortland, meeting that sullen soldier, "I
don't suppose you have figured on being allowed to go to Denver with
your company."

"I suppose, sir, that I'm slated for the post guard," replied Hinkey,
saluting.

"My man, you've recently been guilty of conduct grossly unbecoming a
soldier. But you've served your guard house period, and you'll be busy,
for many weeks yet to come, in working out the fines imposed against
you. For breaches of discipline it is the intent of the authorities to
provide sufficient punishment. It is not, however, the purpose to keep
on punishing a man. You may be glad, therefore, to know that you are to
be allowed to go to Denver with your company."

"Thank you, sir; I am glad," replied Private Hinkey, saluting very
respectfully.

"Then look carefully to your conduct until the time comes to start,"
admonished Captain Cortland.

"Thank you, sir. I most certainly shall."

Then, as he watched the back of Captain Cortland, a peculiarly
disagreeable smile came to Hinkey's lips.

"Oh, yes, I'll be careful!" he muttered. "And I am glad of the
chance--far more glad than you can guess, Cap. A trip like this will
give me ten times the chance I'd have here at Clowdry to get even with
that cheeky young kid sergeant, Overton!"

Thereafter Hinkey fairly dreamed of the military journey that was so
near at hand.

All was bustle and activity on the military reservation. Soldiers taking
part in a military tournament require almost as many "propertie