That being the case, you cannot teach them anything that it will be worth their while to know.

If the captain had heard what I heard you saying to those men he'd put you back in the awkward squad yourself.

Patience is the first thing a drill-master needs.

Whom do you call the smartest corporal in the company ?" "Corporal Smedley," Barrow answered, without hesitation.
"Right, and he's going to be the next new sergeant.

But Smedley is the most patient drill-master in the company.