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Molly McDonald - A Tale of the Old Frontier by Randall Parrish
page 282 of 309 (91%)

"Step forward, Sergeant," he said quietly. "Ah, yes; I had forgotten
your name, but remember your face," he smiled about on the group. "We
have been so scattered since our organization, gentlemen, that we are
all comparative strangers." He stood up, lifting in one hand a tin cup
of coffee. "Gentlemen, all we of the Seventh rejoice in the honor of
the service, whether it be upheld by officer or enlisted man. I bid
you drink a toast with me to Sergeant Hamlin."

"But, General, I have done nothing to deserve--"

"Observe the modesty of a real hero. Yet wait until I am through.
With due regard for his achievements as a soldier, I propose this toast
in commemoration of a greater deed of gallantry than those of arms--the
capture of Miss Molly McDonald!"

There was a quick uplifting of cups, a burst of laughter, and a volley
of questions, the Sergeant staring about motionless, his face flushed.

"What is it, General?"

"Tell us the story!"

"Give us the joke!"

"But I assure you it is no joke. I have it direct from the fair lips
of the lady. Brace yourselves, gentlemen, for the shock. You young
West Pointers lose, and yet the honor remains with the regiment. Miss
Molly McDonald, the toast of old Fort Dodge, whose bright eyes have won
all your hearts, has given hers to Sergeant Hamlin of the Seventh. And
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