Crittenden - Page 44/103

"I'm sure to come back. Good-by."

"Good-by, sir."

The unconscious "sir" startled Crittenden. It was merely habit, of

course, and the fact that Crittenden was not yet enlisted, but there was

an unintended significance in the soldier's tone that made him wince.

Blackford turned sharply away, flushing.