It is awfully bad luck.

Still, if I ever do get back, I suppose the fact that I have saved Colonel Houghton's life will count for something in my favour.

It was unlucky that there was not time for me to jump up behind him, but my horse was in bad condition, and we should have been a good deal longer under fire.
"However, I ought not to grumble at my luck.

I believe I am the only officer who has been taken prisoner and, as it looks as if I am to be kept as a hostage, my life would seem to be safe.

I certainly expected nothing but instant death when they rushed down upon me.