Final answer:
The sergeant major's statement, "it's just a bit of what you might call magic," is a figure of speech used to describe something that seems inexplicable or extraordinary.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sergeant major's statement, "it's just a bit of what you might call magic," is a figure of speech used to describe something that seems inexplicable or extraordinary. In this context, the sergeant major is acknowledging that what happened defies logical explanation or scientific understanding. The phrase 'bit of what you might call magic' suggests that there is something mystical or mysterious about the event.
This phrase is not meant to be taken literally but rather as a metaphor to emphasize the unusual nature of the situation. It conveys the idea that there is something extraordinary or beyond normal explanation happening. It adds a touch of wonder and amazement to the story.