They all arose eagerly to welcome him. He shook hands with Britomarte and Elfie, and with the two gentlemen, and kissed his sister, and then drew a chair to the table, where room was speedily made for him. “Why, he wears the captain’s straps!” exclaimed Elfie, in delight. “Yes,” smiled Justin, “I have my company at last, Elfie.” “But you said nothing about it!” “I wanted to see whether you would notice the straps without my pointing them out.” “Well, I declare!—Ladies and gentlemen I have the honor to present to you—Captain Rosenthal!” said Elfie, solemnly. “I saw your new straps, Justin dear—I saw them at once. What change could take place in you that I should not see?” said Erminie, in a low voice. “I understood you, my sister,” murmured Justin. Then he turned his eyes on Britomarte. She met the glance and answered gravely: “When you are promoted for services rendered on the battle-field, Justin, then I will congratulate you.” Captain Rosenthal bowed in silence. “Certainly; what have we all been thinking of? He has risen from the ranks without ever having been under fire; he has been advanced upon the small merits of keeping himself clean and minding his drill. Bosh! When you have seen twenty well-fought fields and come to us with one arm and both legs off and the stars of a major-general on, then we’ll make much of you,” said Elfie. “Oh, how cruel!” murmured Erminie. “No, they are not cruel, my sister. They are right,” said Justin. “Promotion is best earned in the battle-field, where I shall soon seek it. Though I hope to bring back a limb or two more than Elfie would leave me.” “Yes—I hope so too; for she would literally leave you not a leg to stand upon!” exclaimed Major Fielding heartily. Justin then announced that the brigade to which his regiment belonged was now ready for service, and was hourly expecting marching orders. And when tea was over he took leave and departed. It was not until the next morning, at the breakfast table, that Major Fielding discovered his daughter’s escapade. Now that the draft was over, Elfie no longer read the papers aloud while others breakfasted. So Major Fielding had the morning paper in his hand, leisurely looking over it while he sipped his coffee. Suddenly he set down his cup with emphasis, and nearly let out an oath. Erminie, Elfie and Ethel looked up to see what was the matter. “What the —— is this? How is it? Why wasn’t I told about it? Answer, Miss!” exclaimed the angry old soldier, turning upon his daughter. “Now here’s a row! Answer what? Now don’t obstreperate, but explain, pap,” coolly replied Elfie, as she daintily ate her egg from its shell. “_This_, Miss! THIS!” exclaimed the almost infuriated old man, holding up the paper with one hand and rapping upon it with the fist of the other.