already rife throughout the country, such, for instance, as that of
four uhlans galloping into a town with drawn revolvers and taking
possession of it, when the corps to which they belonged was a dozen
miles away. They were everywhere, preceding the columns like a
buzzing, stinging swarm of bees, a living curtain, behind which the
infantry could mask their movements and march and countermarch as
securely as if they were at home upon parade. And Maurice's heart sank
in his bosom as he looked at the road, crowded with chasseurs and
hussars which our leaders put to such poor use.

"Well, then, _au revoir_," said he, shaking Prosper by the hand;
"perhaps they will find something for you to do down yonder, after
all."

But the chasseur appeared disgusted with the task assigned him. He
sadly stroked Poulet's neck and answered:

"Ah, what's the use talking! they kill our horses and let us rot in
idleness. It is sickening."

When Maurice took off his shoe that evening to have a look at his
foot, which was aching and throbbing feverishly, the skin came with
it; the blood spurted forth and he uttered a cry of pain. Jean was
standing by, and exhibited much pity and concern.

"Look here, that is becoming serious; you are going to lie right down
and not attempt to move. That foot of yours must be attended to. Let
me see it."

He knelt down, washed the sore with his own hands and bound it up with