After leaving headquarters, and while making his way back to camp, our hero was in a state of hardly-to-be-repressed excitement. Was one of his age and limited experience ever intrusted with so important a mission? He did not believe it possible, and was so filled with pride that it seemed as though every person he passed ought to regard him with respectful interest. As one after another only glanced at him carelessly or failed to notice him at all, he wondered at their stupidity, and felt like compelling their attention by proclaiming his great secret. At camp the situation was even more aggravating, for every one was so intent on his own affairs or so unhappy at being left behind that Ridge found himself barely noticed. Several questioned him concerning his return, and one asked if the whole regiment was ordered back. "Not that I know of," answered Ridge. "I believe I am the only one thus far." "Well, I'm glad you have been sent to the rear, and only wish all the others were as well, for it's a beastly outrage that some should be taken and others left. Just as if we weren't as good as any of them!" was the bitter comment. "Without reply, Ridge turned towards the place where he had left his blanket roll, only to encounter another shock to his recent pride. An officer met him. "Hello! What troop do you belong to?" he asked, suspiciously. "Troop K, sir," answered Ridge, saluting. "I thought so. What are you doing here?" "I was ordered ashore." "Humph! Without any reason at all, I suppose." Ridge remained silent. "Oh, well, if you don't choose to tell why you are in disgrace you needn't, but you may report to the cook of the officers' mess, who is in need of an assistant." Here was a dilemma. Ridge could not, of course, obey this order, since every moment was precious. To disobey would cause his arrest and detention in the guard-house. Nor could he inform even this officer of the secret mission on which he was engaged. At that moment evening stable-call was sounded, and a happy inspiration came to his relief. "Very well, sir," he answered, turning as if to obey the order. Then he added, "May I look after my horse first?" "I suppose so," replied the officer. "Only be quick about it, for the cook is badly in need of some one to help him." So, without making a further attempt to recover his personal belongings, Ridge hastened to the picket-line, where Senorita manifested most extravagant joy at again seeing her young master. "Is that your horse?" inquired the non-commissioned officer in charge of the stable guard. Upon Ridge acknowledging that the mare was his, the other continued; "Well, I'm mighty glad you've come to look after her, for she has nearly killed two men already, and we were just wondering whether we should kill her or turn her loose. Now you'd better take her to water." "May I put on a saddle and bridle?" inquired Ridge.