Half an hour later McKay was standing in Hyde's place, receiving the
same offer, but accepting, although diffidently.
"I am not fit for the post, sir," he protested.
"That's my affair. I have selected you for reasons of my own, and the
responsibility is mine."
"I will try my best, sir; that is all I can say."
"It's quite enough. Do your best, and you will satisfy me."
"I can't think why he chose me," confided Stanislas to his friend
Hyde, later on, in the sergeants' mess.
"Can't you?" replied his friend, drily. "It's a case of hidden merit
receiving its right reward."
"I have never thought that the colonel noticed me, or distinguished me
from any of the other sergeants," said Stanislas.
"Probably your good qualities were pointed out to him," replied Hyde,
still in the same tone. "Or your fine friends and relations have used
their influence."
"It is little likely; and, as I tell you, I don't understand it in the
least."
"Leave it so. No doubt you will find out some day. In the meantime do
justice to your recommendation, whoever gave it. You have got your
foot on the ladder now, but no one can help you to climb; that must
depend upon your own exertions."
"Yes, but you can help me, Hyde, with your advice, encouragement,
support. I am very young to be put up so high, and over men of
standing and experience like yourself.
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