"Sergeant, we are not contract laborers.

We are civil engineers--professional men." "Nevertheless," replied the sergeant, handing back the telegram into the hands of bewildered.

Tom Reade, "I cannot undertake to send this message until it is endorsed with the written approval of Don Luis Montez, your employer." "Does Don Luis own this side of Mexico, or this wing of the Mexican Army ?" Tom inquired, with biting sarcasm.
"I cannot send the telegram, senor, except as I have stated." Whereupon the sergeant began firmly, though gently, to push Tom out of the room.

Comparing the size and muscular development of the two, it looked almost humorous to see this effort.

But Tom, who now realized how hopeless his errand was, allowed himself to be pushed out.