ing to describe
it. Captain Douglas occupied a seat to the right of Lt. Col. Tilden and
received that attention which characterizes Sir Thomas. Mr. Howe, once
more on friendly footing, was assigned a seat beside the incorrigible
Captain Hawley, whose choice epithets produced such sensitive effects
upon the ears of the secretary sometime previous. Major McNair, a
brusque, genial, stout-hearted soldier, always ready to do the honors of
the Regiment under his charge, had on his right Captain Hawkins, an
American officer; on his left an American youth and nephew of the
officer. The convivial resources of these dinners were of a nature
sometimes loud, boisterous, and exhilarating. Though indulging in
countless practical jokes, various scenes of carousal, revels, mingling
with toast upon toast, cards and amusements, there was a general good
feeling throughout the whole proceedings. Misunderstandings sometimes led
to sharp words, but the intervention of a superior had a healing effect.
In nowise did Lieutenant Trevelyan receive so many taunts from his fellow
officers as for habits of moderation. They often dubbed him "Saint Guy,
the cold water man," which only served to amuse the young Lieutenant. The
attention of the American was often directed to Mr. Trevelyan, listening
with deep interest to the history of the young man and his distinguished
father. "Lieutenant Trevelyan is a gentleman in every sense of the
term," said the Major. "There is no need of that explanation, sir," said
the American; "it is written in bold outline upon his handsome boyish
face. His father will yet be proud of such a son." "The words of His
Excellency," returned the Major. In the flow of general conversation
that ensued many pretty speeches were made by the military and responded
by several citizens, gentlemen who were frequent guests at dinner. Sir
Thomas Tilden arose, complimenting Captain Douglas on his success,
hoping that they may meet soon on the same business. This called from
the gallant and handsome Captain one of his most witty and humorous
speeches, after which Captain Hawley sang Rule Britannia with the entire
company in a deafening chorus. After a short pause, cries of "Howe!
Howe!" Nothing short of an oration would satisfy. The secretary rose and
delivered something which would take some investigation to classify
either as an epic, oration, or burlesque. They wanted variety and such
it was. A puzzled expression rested on Lieutenant Treve