That will give each horse a partial rest--one day out of three." "Like that they could do it, I should say, major, in about a fortnight." They rode first to Breslau, and thence to Magdeburg, passing through many towns on the long journey, but none of any great importance.

At Magdeburg they heard that they must make for Hanover, where they would be able to ascertain the precise position of the duke's army, which was on the northern frontier of Westphalia.
While the French, under the Duke of Broglio, were advancing north from Frankfort-on-Maine; another French army, under Contades, was moving against Ferdinand from the west.

As it was probable that there would, at least, be no great battle until the two French armies combined, Fergus, who had already given his horses two days' complete rest, remained for three days at Magdeburg; as it was likely that he would have to work them hard, when he joined the duke.
Five days later he rode into the Duke of Brunswick's principal camp, which was near Osnabrueck, where was situated his central magazine.
"I am glad to see you, Major Drummond," the duke said cordially, when Fergus reported himself.

"I thought perhaps the king would select you for the service, and I know how zealous and active you are.

I am greatly in need of a staff officer who can speak English, for none of mine can do so.
"I think that we shall have some hard fighting here, soon.