For several minutes it was impossible to hear one's self speak.

The company surrounded the messenger, overwhelming him with questions.
"Damnation!" the commander at length shouted, "don't make such a row.

Be calm, or I won't answer for anything." Everyone sank back in his chair again, heaving long-drawn sighs.

They then obtained a few particulars.

The messenger had met the column at Les Tulettes, and had hastened to return.
"There are at least three thousand of them," said he.