It wouldn't be difficult for a man to slip away into the forest on the march back if you gave the nod to the sentries guarding him.

All I ask for is a rifle and a belt of cartridges.

I'd shift for myself then.' He ended abruptly and crouched, listening to the orders shouted to the troops outside.

The men were being ranged in their companies.

Then the companies in succession were marched, halted, wheeled, and halted again.
Gorley traced a plan of their evolutions with his fingers upon the floor of the hut.