So much for "peace time." But if--in the event of--and supposing (here the young engineer made a rapid diversion into the politics of the day) there was a chance of "active service"-- the Royal Engineers not only offered far more than drill and barrack duties in time of peace, but no branch of the army gave nobler opportunities for distinguished service in time of war.

At this point he spoke with such obvious relish, that I saw Dennis was ready to take the Queen's Shilling on the spot.

Alister's eyes gave a flash or two, but on the whole he "kept a calm sough," and put the other side of the question.
He said a good deal, but the matter really lay in small compass.

The profession of arms is not highly paid.

It was true that the pay was poor enough as a seaman, and the life far harder, but then he was only bound for each voyage.