11th June, later in the day: Partnerships formed

Obediently and quickly the boy straightened a little and glanced towards the Officer to see if either of them would now be addressed. He had no more questions for the moment, and many for the new man,which he hoped not to try asking all at the same time or else he felt that he might displease him. He took on the manner of standing he was most used to in the 33rd. It always helped when he needed to look very stiffly presentable.

Eyes to the captain, and he hoped the man would speak English again because as much as it had helped those speaking German, he had no idea exactly what Vickery had earier said.

"I think you had best make each other's acquaintance," Vickery said, looking between the men and switching back to English. "If, for any reason, you think that you cannot get on with the man I have paired you with, please let me know within the next week and I will endeavour to find you someone else to work with. Carry on."

"Thank you, sir." Pye looked at Burke and grinned. In a way the man was new and yet experienced, where as he was less new than Burke, but less experienced in the ways of a rifleman too. He looked a bit timid and yet could barely contain his excitement. It wouldn't do, would it? Acting so thrilled.

"Come." Being dismissed had its perks. One of them was that they could now engage in a proper conversation and 'get know'.

"Thank ye, sir," Burke echoed, saluting.

He returned Pye's grin easily and hurried after him. "'M comin'."

(they go here )