"
McKay looked at the colonel and shook his head.
"You are very good, my lord, but I prefer to stay with my regiment."
"Colonel Blythe, you really must spare him to me," said Lord Raglan.
"We want him, and more of his stamp."
"Your wishes are law, my lord. I should prefer to keep Mr. McKay, but
I will not stand in his way if he desires to go. I shall not miss him
so much now that everything is in good working order."
McKay was disposed still to protest, but Lord Raglan cut him short by
saying--
"Come over to headquarters to-morrow, and report yourself to General
Airey. As for you, my fine fellow," Lord Raglan went on, turning to
Hyde, "you are still a non-commissioned officer, I see."
"Yes, my lord, I am only acting-quartermaster."
"Well, I shall recommend you for a commission at once."
"I do not want promotion, my lord," replied Hyde.
"He has refused it several times," added Blythe.
"That's all nonsense! He must take it; it's for the good of the
service. I shall send forward your name," and, so saying, Lord Raglan
rode off.
Stanislas took up his duties at headquarters next day. He was attached
to the quartermaster-general's department, and was at once closely
examined as to his capabilities and qualifications by his new chief,
General Airey, a man of extraordinarily quick perception, and a shrewd
judge of character.
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