"
"Then he'll suit me."
It was now quite late, and presently a loud, clear bell rang out
in the belfry.
"Six o'clock," said Captain Dave Kearney. "That is to bring in
the boys from the playground. They have fifteen minutes in which
to wash up for supper. Excuse me, I'll be needed in ten minutes
to form my company," and soon the newcomers found themselves
alone with several others who had just arrived at Putnam Hall.
The cadets were rushing from everywhere to the lavatories, to make
themselves presentable on parade. Soon they began to form on the
grounds before the building. Dick and the others saw them divide
up into two companies, with Harry Blossom at the head of the first
and Dave Kearney leading the second. The two companies, called a
battalion, were commanded by Major Bart. In addition to the
officers, there were two drummers, a bass-drummer, and two fifers.
"Companies, attention!" came the command, and the lines became
rigid. "By column of fours -- march!" The drums struck up, and
away went the columns of each company, to the front of the parade
ground. Then they wheeled to the right, the fifers started up a
lively air, and the cadets marched around the hall three times,
and at last into the door nearest to the mess-hall or dining room.
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