“Children,” he cried, “have you all said your morning prayers?”
“Yes, yes!” answered almost every voice. “If any of you forgot them, or did not have time, let them pray now.”
Five or six peasants knelt down and prayed.
The drums and bugle drew nearer.
“General, general,” cried several voices impatiently, “they are coming.”
The general motioned to the kneeling peasants.
“True,” replied the impatient ones.
Those who prayed rose one by one, according as their prayers had been long or short. By the time they were all afoot, the Republicans had crossed nearly one-third of the distance. They marched, bayonets fixed, in three ranks, each rank three abreast.
Roland rode at the head of the first rank, General Hatry between the first and second. Both were easily recognized, being the only men on horseback. Among the Chouans, Cadoudal was the only rider, Branche-d’Or having dismounted to take command of the eight men who were to follow Georges.
“General,” said a voice, “the prayer is ended, and every one is standing.”