There was no sort of order among us.

The men were not formed into companies.

There was no attempt to direct them.

Each simply joined the leader he fancied and, when the word was given, charged forward at the top of his speed.

It is all very well against the National Guards, and these young troops; but as Jean said, it would be a different affair, altogether, if we were to meet trained soldiers.
"But the peasants seem to be quick, and I expect they will adopt tactics better suited to the country, when they come to fighting in these lanes and woods.