So this was the great Bonaparte?
He longed earnestly for a nearer view.
"Think you, my lord," whispered the Baronet to the old Marquis, his great anxiety showing in his voice, "that your men are to be depended upon?
That they will----" The Marquis shook his head, stared down the ranks at the men standing grim and tensely silent at parade-rest.
"They look steady," he replied, shrugging his shoulders.

"They have taken an oath to the King, and--God only knows." "What shall you do ?" "The best I can with the means at hand," was the indomitable answer.
"And if----" "There are no 'ifs,' monsieur," was the imperious way in which the Marquis silenced the other.
Recognizing that he had said enough, and indeed pitying the old man so alone, the Baronet drew back a little.
"By heaven," whispered young Frank Yeovil to his father, "I wouldn't be elsewhere for a thousand pounds." "It may cost you that before you get away, and more," said the old man grimly.

"It will cost England millions, unless----" "_Monsieur le Commandant_," said old Major Lestoype, riding up to the group and saluting respectfully.
"Major Lestoype." "The command is formed and ready, sir." "Very good.

Take your place and be prepared." "Will _Monsieur le Marquis_ permit me ?" asked the old soldier, who had acquired a genuine respect for the old noble.
"Permit you what ?" "To return his advice," was the not unexpected reply.
"The thought of me, which is evidently back of your words, sir, inclines me to overlook their meaning and its impropriety.

Know, sir, that I am always ready," was the grim comment of the ancient soldier.
"Indeed, sir--" began the other, but the Marquis cut him short with an imperious gesture and a word.
"Retire." The Major saluted, resumed his place in the line.