“Yes,” answered Ben, “there are so many persons of foreign birth working in the mills that father thought the sight of the flag every day would be a constant reminder to them of the duty they owe this government, and the necessity they are under of obeying its laws.” “Good idea!” exclaimed the lady. “Don’t you think so, Hal?” turning to the fair-haired boy. “I suppose so,” replied Hal, “provided the government is so conducted as to command their obedience and respect.” “Well, isn’t it?” she asked sharply. “Oh, I think there are some things that might be changed for the better.” “What are they, I’d like to know? No, you needn’t tell me. It’s just some of your high-brow notions about the social order and that sort of thing, and I don’t want to hear them. What business has a boy of your age, anyway, befogging his brains over economic problems? Studying baseball scores is a vastly better business for young fellows like you.” The music of an approaching band had grown more distinct, and a procession could be seen coming down the main street toward the plaza. The procession consisted of town officials, speakers of the day, committeemen, prominent citizens, a group of young girls dressed in white, and the local company of state militia. Miss Sarah Halpert stood up in her automobile to watch the soldiers as they marched by. Dressed in khaki, arms at a right-shoulder, straight and sturdy, obeying commands with the precision of veterans, they certainly formed a pleasing and inspiring sight. The woman clapped her hands vigorously in approval, her eyes sparkled, and a flush came into her cheeks. “Splendid!” she cried. “There’s young manhood for you!” She turned toward the fair-haired youth. “Halpert McCormack,” she exclaimed, “you ought to be in that company this minute. A boy whose father was captain of it for ten years has no right to be outside of it.” “I’ve been thinking about joining,” responded Hal. “I’m eighteen now, and I suppose I could get in. I think father would have liked me to be a member.” “Of course he would. You must apply for admission to the company at once. What about you, Ben?” turning to the other boy. “Oh, my application’s already in,” replied Ben. “I believe in the military life. It’s splendid discipline for any fellow. Besides, when my country needs soldiers I want to be prepared to fight.” “Good! That’s the talk!” She clapped her hands again. “Now go to it, Hal. See who gets a commission first, you or Ben. I’ll tell you what I want,” she continued; “I want to see Halpert McCormack captain of Company E, as his father was before him, and Benjamin Barriscale its first lieutenant.” “Suppose the order of rank should be reversed?” inquired Hal, laughingly.