human
Here, what's all this row about?
gpt
Keep out o' this mix, said Shorty, without looking around.
human
What, you rascal, would you assault an officer?
gpt
He ain't no officer, General, said Si, catching sight of two dim stars on the man's shoulders.
human
He's tryin' to steal our recruits from us.
gpt
Yes, I am an officer, said Billings, avoiding Shorty's clutch.
human
These men are assaultin' me while I'm on duty. I want them arrested and punished.
gpt
Fall back there, both of you, said the General severely, as Si and Shorty came to a present arms.
human
Sergeant, who are you, and where do you belong?
gpt
I'm Serg't Klegg, sir, of Co. Q, 200th Injianny Volunteer Infantry.
human
Who are you, Corporal?
gpt
I'm Corp'l Elliott, sir, of Co. Q, 200th Injianny Volunteer Infantry.
human
Now, officer, who are you?
gpt
I'm Lieut.-Col. Billings, sir.
human
Where's your shoulder-straps?
gpt
I had 'em taken off this coat to git fixed. They were torn.
human
Where's your sword?
gpt
I left it in my quarters.
human
Fine officer, to go on duty that way. Where do you belong?
gpt
I belong to the 200th Ind.
human
That ain't true, General, Si protested.
gpt
He was fired out of the regiment a year ago. He's a citizen.
human
Silence, Sergeant. Billings? Billings? The name of the Lieutenant-Colonel of the 200th Ind. happens to be McBiddle--one-armed man, good soldier. Billings? Billings? T. J. Billings? Is that your name?
gpt
Yes, sir,
human
Didn't you have some trouble about a bunch of cattle you sold to the Quartermaster-General?
gpt
Well, there was little difference of opinion, but--
human
That'll do, sir. That'll do for the present. I begin to get you placed. I thought I knew the name Billings as soon as you spoke it, but I couldn't remember any officer in my army of that name. Now, Sergeant, tell me your story.
gpt
General, me and my pardner here, began Si,
human
Good idea, said the General, in his quick, peremptory way.
gpt
You three (indicating Si, Shorty and Billings) march off there 25 paces, while I talk to the boys.