There was a curious look in Colonel Thomas’s eyes which seemed to say: “You might play it as well as you play the Colonel;” but Sheldon was too stupid and too vain, I think, to perceive any affront.

And, “Where do you lodge, gentlemen?” inquired our Major, addressing us both; and when he learned that we were roofless he insisted that we remain under his roof, nor would he hear of any excuses touching the present unsuitability of our condition and attire.

“Gentlemen, gentlemen! I will not accept a refusal,” he said. “We are plain folk and live plainly, and both bed and board are at your disposal. Lord, sir! And what would Clinton think were I to send two officers of his corps d’�lite to a village ordinary!”