As I say, Bannatyne's a damned good soldier, and personally as brave as a lion, but when it comes to the regiment, he's too much on the cautious side.

The regiment's only longing to make things hum, and I'm going to let 'em do it." I congratulated him in politely appropriate terms and went on with my bacon and eggs.

He sat on the window-seat and tapped his gaiters with his cane life-preserver.

He wore his cap.
"I thought you'd like to know," said he.

"You've been so good to the old mother while I've been away and been so charitable, listening to my yarns, while I've been here, that I couldn't resist coming round and telling you." "I suppose your mother's delighted," said I.
He threw back his head and laughed, as though he had never a black thought or memory in the world.
"Dear old mater! She has the impression that I'm going out to take charge of the blessed campaign.