We march exposed, upright, through the open fields.

Then I suddenly understand what they have hidden from us up to the last moment--we are attacking! Yes, the counter-attack has begun without our knowing it.

I apply myself to following the others.

May I not be killed like the others; may I be saved like the others! But if I am killed, so much the worse.
I bear myself forward.

My eyes are open but I look at nothing; confused pictures are printed on my staring eyes.