At the first mention of this subject Dermoncourt had noticed the officer's embarrassment, and, looking at him more attentively, had recognised him as the commandant with whom my father had had dealings.
He then thought it was about time to cut the conversation short, and said:
"But, General, do you not recognise this gentleman?"
"Upon my word, I don't," said my father.
"He was the commandant—"
"Well?"
Dermoncourt signed to the officer as much as to say that he had better continue the conversation himself.
The officer, understanding his meaning, replied, laughing:
"That commandant, General, was myself!"
"Really!"