“Yes, and the best of it is that he is one of our American soldiers,” put in Jennie. “I believe all our American soldiers are brave.” At this Gilbert felt compelled to smile. “If they are not, they ought to be,” he answered. “It’s an honor to fight for Uncle Sam.” “It’s a pity Mr. Polk didn’t become a soldier,” observed Mrs. Bartlett. “He has already told me that he is going to join the army just as soon as he is well enough,” answered Gilbert. “I am glad to hear it,” came from Amos Bartlett. “It will probably be the making of him.” * * * * * Here let us draw to a close this tale of adventures in China. We have been with Gilbert during an exciting time in Manila, along on an interesting journey to Nagasaki and Taku; and we have followed the young lieutenant’s stirring adventures while the Boxers and Chinese troops were being driven first from Tien-Tsin, then from Peitsang, Ho-Si-Wu, and Tung-Chow, and lastly from Pekin and the Imperial City itself. He had had no easy time of it; and now, when Pekin was in the hands of the Allies, and the diplomats of the various nations were trying to arrange for permanent peace, he was perfectly willing to rest, and to attend to the personal affairs which had cropped up so unexpectedly. Many adventures were still in store for him, which will be related in another volume, entitled: “Under the Mikado’s Flag; or, Young Soldiers of Fortune.” In this tale we shall also meet many other old friends, including the Russell brothers and those faithful comrades in arms, Carl Stummer and Dan Casey. Gilbert did not forget that Captain Banner was on a sick-bed; and he went to see his superior officer often, and also the other men of Company A who had dropped out of the ranks for one reason or another. He was glad to find the captain improving, although it was doubtful if the officer would assume his position for a long time to come. “But never mind,” said the captain to Gilbert one day. “I know my company is in good hands. The boys tell me you led them splendidly.” “I only did my duty,” answered the young lieutenant. “I came here to fight, not to sit still and think about it. But I am glad we have captured Pekin.” “Yes, so am I. It will be a lesson that China will never forget. After this, foreign flags will have a new meaning to the Celestials; and our ministers and missionaries will come and go without molestation.” At the end of the week Gilbert was ordered back to Pekin. The great capital was now comparatively quiet, and the shops were beginning to open once more for business. “I don’t believe we’ll have to remain in China much longer,” said Major Morris to Gilbert. “The war is over.” “Let us hope so,” answered Gilbert. “But, even if it isn’t, I don’t believe we’ll have any more lively times than we had when the cry was: ON TO PEKIN!” SOLDIERS OF FORTUNE SERIES By EDWARD STRATEMEYER VOLUME ONE _ON TO PEKIN_ _Or Old Glory in China_