“I do not think you will find any difference after my departure, although, many persons say that it is all very well so long as I am here, but that as soon as my back is turned it will be as bad as ever. Colonel Dennis, in particular, will not be persuaded; I will vouch for the contrary, as my receipts are all done by weight and measure, and that causes much less trouble. Before I came they had never done working, and all for want of a proper system of management. Doctor Cumming and myself have talked over the subject, and we have no fear of the result. The only thing required is for the serjeant in charge to see all properly attended to in the morning.” “I shall be happy to give you a letter to Lord Raglan, with whom I suppose you are acquainted.” “I am; but it is above twelve years since I had the pleasure of seeing his lordship, and that was at the Reform Club; therefore a letter from your lordship, in addition to one from the Minister-at-War, cannot fail to be very acceptable.” “It shall be ready for you to-morrow morning. By the way, I hope you do not intend to go before the new purveyor-in-chief comes. It is most important that you should see him.” “Indeed! I was not aware that we were to have a new purveyor-in-chief. I very much regret it--but is Mr. Milton going?” “Of course he is: he only came out here till another could be appointed. He cannot remain, as he holds a very important appointment at the War-Office, and his presence is required in London. I should advise you to see him, and mention about your stoves. He will forward them to Balaklava for you.” “I will do so, my lord. I much regret taking up so much of your valuable time.” “Do not mention that, Monsieur Soyer. This is business, and to my mind of great importance.” “A fresh tribulation!” thought I; “a new purveyor-in-chief, who, in my absence, may upset everything I have done!” I went immediately to Miss Nightingale, to inquire whether she had heard of this change. I met Mr. Bracebridge there, and he told me that he had known it for some time. He informed me that Miss Nightingale and himself were going to the Crimea, and proposed that we should all start together. I, of course, was much pleased at the news, as I knew that Miss Nightingale would be of great assistance to me in the hospitals in the Crimea. I then promised Mr. Bracebridge to be ready on the day fixed for our departure. Mr. Bracebridge said, “Miss Nightingale is engaged at present. Do you wish to see her?” “No; I am going to Mr. Milton, to speak about the stoves I mentioned the other day, and to inquire when the new purveyor-in-chief is coming.” “Oh, I can tell you that--he will be here to-morrow without fail.” “That will do nicely. We shall just have time to become acquainted, and settle everything before my departure to the seat of war.” I found Mr. Milton preparing for his departure. “Well, Monsieur Soyer, have you any message for London?” said he, with a jovial face and a smile.