"Three minutes to seven," he said, snapping the case. "I guess the old man will drop when he sees _me_!"
"Drive along, cabby, to the head of the procession," added Steadman.
There was plenty of space to allow the hansom to pass near the curb, and they drove slowly along past the three battalions to where the colonel and his staff stood waiting for the gates to be opened. The band had ceased playing. The men laughed and jested, watching the lone hansom and its three occupants with interest.
At the stone posts by the entrance the cab stopped and Steadman shook hands with Ellen. The smile had gone from his face.
"Well, good-by, old man! Accept the prodigal's insufficient thanks. You're a brick, Ralston. Good-by!"
Beside the hansom Steadman paused for an instant and looked up.
"Don't forget what I said, Ellen! The fellow I spoke of is 'a prince.' Good-by!"
He turned and walked rapidly to where the colonel stood talking to the chaplain. All the fatigue had vanished from his step as he drew himself up before his commanding officer and saluted.
The staff had turned to him in amazement.
"I report for duty, sir!" he said simply.
"Take your company, sir!" he replied tartly.
Steadman saluted again, and grasping his sword ran down the line, while a wave of comment and ejaculation followed just behind him.
At this moment a whistle blew inside the ferry house, and a porter slowly swung the gates open.
"Attention!" said he, glancing behind him.
"Attention!" ordered the lieutenant colonel.
As the regiment stiffened, Steadman stepped to the head of his company.
"Good morning, Mr. Coffin," he remarked nonchalantly.
"Good morning," replied the astounded lieutenant.
Then as the order flew down the line Steadman drew his sword.
Behind the staff the drum major held his baton in air, and the musicians stood with their instruments at their lips ready for the order.
Down came the drum major's baton. The band started "There'll be a Hot Time!"
"--March!" concluded the colonel, and, turning front, stepped ahead.
"Forward--march!" shouted the lieutenant colonel. The order was instantly repeated by the captains.
The battalion came to shoulder arms and moved forward.
"Horrard, Hutch! Horrard, Hutch!" howled the majors.