Fergus knew that there were several cavalry posts ahead, and thought it likely that some of these might be left to give warning of the Prussian approach.

He therefore rode across the country for some miles.

He had begun to think that he must have gone beyond the limit of their outposts, when he saw a hussar pacing across the line in front of him, his beat evidently being between two small woods three or four hundred yards apart.
He checked his horse, as he saw Fergus approaching.

He was a good-tempered looking fellow, and nodded to Fergus as much as to say that, if he could speak his language, he should like a chat with him.

The latter at once checked his horse, and said good day, in French.
"Ah, you speak our language!" the soldier said.