I was so taken by surprise that before I could use my sword the fellow had given me a nasty stab on the shoulder; but before he could strike again I had run him through.

By this time several other, men ran out of the tent, uttering exclamations of rage at seeing their fallen comrade.
"'What is it, sir ?' they asked me.
"'This scoundrel, here, has stabbed your comrade,' I said.

'He did not see me coming, and I ran up just as he was, I think, rifling him for booty.

He came at me like a wild cat, and has given me a nasty stab.
However, I have put an end to his game.

Is your comrade dead ?' "'No, sir, he is breathing still; but I fancy there is little chance for him.' "'You had better carry him to the hospital tent at once; I will send a surgeon there.' "I called the regimental surgeon up, and went with him to the hospital tent, telling him what had happened.