It is right that a regiment should answer through its officer, and any other course is lacking discipline!" Sahib, I have been surprised a thousand times in this war, but not once more surprised than by the instant effect my answer had.

It was a random answer, made while I searched for some argument to use; but the German spokesman turned at once and translated to the officers in uniform.

Watching them very closely, I saw them laugh, and it seemed to me they approved my answer and disapproved some other matter.

I think they disapproved the civilian method of mingling with us in a mob, for a moment later the order was given us in English to fall in, and we fell in two deep.

Then the civilian Germans drew aside and one of the officers in uniform strode toward the entrance gate.