"But if I had stood up and faced them the Eagle would have been lost." The Russian laughed scornfully.
"In the back," he cried meaningly, "a fine place for a soldier!" "Shame," said the Countess quickly.
"If I had faced them," returned the French soldier simply, "I should have been shot in the breast and killed, perhaps, but I should have lost the Eagle.

It was my business to save the Eagle at all hazards, even though I should be branded with cowardice for having done so," he went on hotly.
"I understand," said the Countess.

"I, who have known you from a child, know that you are a brave man, monsieur.

Proceed." "I staggered up the bank.

Fortune had brought me to the place where the Emperor stood watching.