His sunken eyes were closed, but a quiver now and again ran through his frame.

The Lieutenant repeated his question, and, getting no answer, looked round for orders.
The Captain met the look, and crying savagely, 'Answer will you, you mule!' struck the half-swooning miserable across the back with his switch.

The effect was magical.

Covered, as his shoulders were, the man sprang erect with a shriek of pain, raising his chin, and hollowing his back; and in that attitude stood an instant with starting eyes, gasping for breath.

Then he sank back against the wall, moving his mouth spasmodically.