about five in the afternoon
They were all very happy at the prospect of getting back to Manila again , and no one was more glad than Archie . He had somewhat recovered from his wound now , and rode in his old place at the head of the column , where he was the centre of interest to every one . The men congratulated him on having proved such an excellent mascot , and he laughed and talked with them until he was tired . The outskirts of the city were reached about five in the afternoon , and as they marched through the streets to headquarters a band of music preceded them , playing popular and patriotic airs . The sidewalks were crowded with people , and Archie felt happier than for a long time , because every one was curious to know who that boy could be riding at the head of the troops , alongside the colonel . He was known to most of the other troops in Manila , and received many a cheer from them as they saw his arm in a sling , and when they finally reached the general 's headquarters , he was honoured with a handshake and the congratulations of the commander himself . This was the climax to a very happy day , and Archie went to bed in his little old bunk feeling that he was a very lucky boy for having been wounded in battle .