"See--there is a great golden palace over there in the sunset," said Walter, pointing. "Look at the shining tower--and the crimson banners streaming from them. Perhaps a conqueror is riding home from battle--and they are hanging them out to do honour to him." "Oh, I wish we had the old days back again," exclaimed Jem. "I'd love to be a soldier--a great, triumphant general. I'd give EVERYTHING to see a big battle." Well, Jem was to be a soldier and see a greater battle than had ever been fought in the world; but that was as yet far in"