They were near enough, these supreme chiefs, for their conversation, or parts of it, to be heard around. But they spoke in French, and few but McKay understood the purport of all they said.
"I am ready to advance at any moment," said Lord Raglan. "I am only waiting for the development of your attack."
"Bosquet started an hour ago, but he has a tremendous climb up those cliffs."
It was General Bosquet's business to assault the left of the Russian position, strong in natural obstacles, and almost inaccessible to troops.
At this moment an aide-de-camp ventured to ride forward to his general's side, and said—
"Do you hear that firing, my lord? I think the French on the right are warmly engaged."
"Are they?" replied Lord Raglan, doubtfully; "I can't catch any return fire."
"In any case," observed St. Arnaud, quickly, "it is time to lend him a hand. The Prince Napoleon and Canrobert shall now advance."
"The sooner the better," said Lord Raglan, simply; "I must wait till their attack is developed before I can move."
"You shall not wait long, my friend."