CHAPTER XXIV
NUGGY POLK'S SET-BACK
Laying the dead body of the Buddhist priest in the court-yard of the joss house, Gilbert and his men covered it with a matting and some loose stones, that the dogs might not get at it, and then hurried back to the headquarters of the first battalion.
Both Major Morris and Captain Banner were delighted to see the yoimg lieutenant back safe and sound, and all were eager to learn the particulars of his thrilling experience.
"You have had a narrow escape, Pennington," said the major. "You must be more careful of yourself in the future. We have already lost officers enough."
"Rest assured I'll be more careful," answered Gilbert. "I'll venture into no more such lions' dens."
It had been reported to the major that Gilbert had gone off to do some private looting, but this the commander of the first battalion would not believe.
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