Dinner with the Rifle Officers, 10th June

The notion being discussed made Blackwood grin. "A perfectly smart appearance is, of course, essential, regardless what we are using to combat the enemy. Thus, a man who can maintain such an appearance is vital."

He washed a mouthful of stew down with some wine and added, "Of course, if we should be reduced to using our own rations as weapons, we may be in dire straits indeed."

Vickery raised an eyebrow in amusement. How very typical of the Guards, to be convinced that a perfect turn-out denoted a perfect soldier.

"I must admit that we judge things slightly differently in the Rifles, Captain," he replied, leaning his forearms against the table edge and steepling his fingers. "A good turn-out is good, please do not mistake me. But I would far prefer to see a clean rifle than a dirty one. The appearance of the uniform is a secondary consideration. Besides which," he added dryly, "it is not altogether easy to keep uniforms immaculate when on campaign."

"Oh, of course," Blackwood agreed with a wry smile. "There's no use in a musket or rifle that can't fire for fouling. As for being immaculate on campaign... it can be managed, with an effort. I'll admit it was not something my previous regiment was so devotedly concerned with, however."

Whatever his own ambitions were, the constant painstaking care required to maintain an flawless appearance did occasionally wear on him. There were times - however infrequent and brief when they occurred! - that he missed his old regiment for that reason.