I even fancied that because I was rich,
generous, and heir to a title, their observations were
prompted by jealousy of the influence he possessed over
me, and a desire to supplant him only for their interests'
sake. Bitterly have I been punished for the illiberality
of such an opinion. Those to whom I principally allude
were the subalterns of the regiment, most of whom were
nearly of our own age. One or two of the junior captains
were also of this number; but, by the elders (as we termed
the seniors of that rank) and field officers, Ensign de
Haldimar was always regarded as a most prudent and
promising young officer.
"What conduced, in a great degree, to the establishment
of our intimacy was the assistance I always received from
my brother subaltern in whatever related to my military
duties. As the lieutenant of the company, the more
immediate responsibility attached to myself; but being
naturally of a careless habit, or perhaps considering
all duty irksome to my impatient nature that was not duty
in the field, I was but too often guilty of neglecting
it. On these occasions my absence was ever carefully
supplied by your father, who, in all the minutiae of
regimental economy, was surpassed by no other officer in
the corps; so that credit was given to me, when, at the
ordinary inspections, the grenadiers were acknowledged
to be the company the most perfect in equipment and
skilful in manoeuvre.
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