By the light I could see Russians falling.

It came into my mind that Major Marteau had seized the castle and was holding it." "Alone ?" "One soldier of yours, Sire, ought to be able to hold his own against a thousand Russians, especially inside a castle wall." "And what did you then ?" "I made ready my pistol, Sire, and when I saw a man climbing the wall to get in an open window I shot him." "And then ?" "They ran after me, fired at me but I escaped in the darkness." "You ran ?" "Because I knew that you must have the news and as Marteau was there it was necessary for me to bring it." "You have done well," said the Emperor in great satisfaction.

"I thank you for your tidings and your meal.

I have never tasted a better.

Do you wish to go to the rear ?" "For a scratch in the arm ?" asked old Bullet-Stopper scornfully.