Again the report of the rifle rang out, and then Dennis speedily followed the example of Noel. When the hat was examined two more holes were found in the crown each about an inch from the place which had marked the spot where the preceding bullets had hit the mark. "I guess the boys are all right," said the orderly. "Wait a minute," said Dennis. "We have made a square there now, haven't we?" "Yes," replied the soldier. "Well, with three more shots Noel and I will turn the square into a circle and cut out a round piece of the old hat itself." The suggestion of the young Irishman was followed, and true to his word when three more shots had been fired by each it was discovered that a circle in the crown had been completed by the bullets. "If the rest of your story is as true as the part which has to do with your shooting, then I guess both you boys are all right," said the orderly cordially. "We haven't a better shot in our regiment." "Shure, you haven't," said Dennis heartily. "Didn't I tell you that Noel was the best shot in Little Mac's army? Now, if you'll just say the word, sergeant, I would like to have him turn around and fire at the ground under the foot of that little Jew. He paid the piper and he ought to have his dance." Every man in the group at once turned to look at Levi Kadoff, who in spite of his fears had been creeping nearer, and as the voice of Dennis had not been either low or soft, the effect was magical. Levi prepared to depart without further delay. Turning to the orderly Dennis said, "Take my gun, sergeant, and just let me catch the little spalpeen, will ye?" As the chaplain nodded assent in response to the implied question of the sergeant, Dennis laughingly started in swift pursuit of the sutler. For one moment Levi stared blankly at the approaching young Irishman. Manifestly what he saw was not pleasing, for with a shriek he turned and at his utmost speed tried to escape from the place. His efforts, however, availed little, for with his longer strides Dennis swiftly gained upon his victim, and in a brief time laid his heavy hand upon the shoulder of the screaming, shrieking Levi. Kicking and striking like an angry child, the sutler did his utmost to break the firm hold which his captor secured upon him. Apparently unmoved and unmindful, Dennis dragged his helpless prisoner back to the place where the soldiers were awaiting him. "Now, then," said Dennis when he had rejoined his comrades, "we'll make the little spalpeen speak up. What for did you say that Noel and me was disarters?" "Because you vas deserters!" shouted Levi. "You steals mine goots, you tips ofer mine tent, you--" "There! there! That will do," said Dennis soothingly. "I'm thinkin' what you need is what Paddy gave the drum." Helpless in the powerful grasp of Dennis, Levi still shrieked and protested. But in spite of all his efforts, Dennis, seating himself upon a stump, stretched Levi across his lap and soundly spanked him.