Taleverna

“It was to have been next September, but an hour ago a despatch came ordering our regiment to the Presidio, San Francisco. We leave at noon to-morrow. To-morrow,” he repeated. “Just think, Hildred, to-morrow I shall be the happiest fellow that ever drew breath in this jolly world, for Constance will go with me.” I offered him my hand in congratulation, and he seized and shook it like the good-natured fool he was—or pretended to be. “I am going to get my squadron as a wedding present,” he rattled on. “Captain and Mr…