He went as near as he dared trying to overhear words.

Perhaps the general, unable to comprehend chaos, might call upon him for information.

And he could tell him.

He knew all concerning it.

Of a surety the force was in a fix, and any fool could see that if they did not retreat while they had opportunity--why-- He felt that he would like to thrash the general, or at least approach and tell him in plain words exactly what he thought him to be.