From the distance came a sudden spatter of firing.
He was bewildered.

As he ran with his comrades he strenuously tried to think, but all he knew was that if he fell down those coming behind would tread upon him.

All his faculties seemed to be needed to guide him over and past obstructions.

He felt carried along by a mob.
The sun spread disclosing rays, and, one by one, regiments burst into view like armed men just born of the earth.

The youth perceived that the time had come.