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Show 139 Doors slammed, clouds of smoke, steam and rain furred in under the shed, and for a moment the officers were hidden. "I'm tired," said the Colonel after the noise withdrew, "of seeing the Detachment troops like a Hottentot hunting-party. The Engineers are trying to run a training program - make soldiers and Engineers -- but with the Detachments as an example discipline is impossible, I've had enough. I may go higher." He paused, to allow the words to sting, and then continued. "This is your last chance. I want these irregularities corrected. I want your corporal punished and the liquor ration restored. The maid fired. Jennings' papers recalled. The marriage cancelled. "Most of all, I want some discipline. Stop letting your men run." He turned slightly, preparing to leave. "One more thing, Major: either you follow my recommendations or I start through channels. Gentlemen" -- signalling them to the cars -- "we'll get back. If you have any questions, Major, give me a call. I'll wait till tomorrow. No" - he stopped - "Monday. We're leaving for the weekend: General Graves has asked us 3 A up." He waited a moment to see if the Major would salute, b ut deciding to ignore the minor dereliction turned and walked away. The Major waited, whipping his swaggerstick against his leg. He watched until tha Colonel rounded the corner; then he sighed explosively. "Now," ha said, "the cat's got his ass in the acid." And with a curt gesture to Michio and Sid, he started off down the platform. |