"I made such a mug at the old terrapin that he'll never be able to recognise my face." "The--the Secretary of War!" gasped Ailsa.
"You very wicked little boy, don't you dare to make another face at anybody!--or I'll--I'll report your conduct to--to the Sanitary Commission!" "Oh, come!" he said blankly, "don't do that, lady! They'll raise hell with me, if you do.

I want to get hunky with the Sanitary boss." "Then behave yourself!" said Ailsa, furious; "and don't you dare to swear again.

Do you hear ?" "Yes, ma'am--I will--I won't, I mean.

And if I see that old mudsill, Simon Cameron, I'll take off my cap to him, b'gosh!" It was an anxious and subdued soldier who showed them the door of the Commission's office, and stood at attention, saluting carefully as the ladies passed him.
"You won't peach, will you ?" he whispered loudly, as Ailsa stopped to pay the driver.
"No, I won't--this time," she said, smiling, "if you promise to be a very good soldier hereafter." He promised fervidly.

He happened to be on duty at headquarters, and the fear of the Commission had been driven into him deep.