“What are we to do with the lady?” said Frau Simon complainingly. “She will be rather a hindrance than any help.”
I collected myself. “No, no,” I said, “I am better now; I will do all I can to help you.”
We found ourselves in the middle of the village at the gate of a château.
“We will first do here what there is to do,” said the doctor. “The château, which is deserted by its owners, must be filled from cellar to roof with wounded.”
We got out. I could hardly keep on my feet, but stiffened myself with all my force, so as not to give in.
“Forward,” said Frau Simon. “Have we all our luggage? What I am bringing with me will give the people some refreshment.”
“There are restoratives and bandages in my box too,” said I.
“And my hand-bag contains instruments and medicines,” added Bresser. Then we gave the needful orders to the soldiers who accompanied us; two were to wait with the horses and the others come with us.
We passed under the gate of the château. Stifled sounds of woe proceeded from various sides. All was dark.
“Light! the first thing is to strike a light!” called out Frau Simon.