They looked on all sides for the guide whom Courtin had agreed should meet them at this point. The general gave a loud call. A voice answered on the opposite shore,--
"Qui vive?"
"Souday!" replied the general.
"Then you are the ones I am waiting for," said the guide.
"Is this the ford of the Boulogne?" asked the general.
"Yes."
"Why is the water so high?"
"There's a flood since the last rains."
"Is the crossing possible in spite of it?"
"Damn it! I don't know. I have never seen the river as high as this. I think it would be more prudent--"