"Then the enemy is there, near the highway?"
"Yes, the invincible Nitager himself."
It seemed in that moment that the heir to the throne had gone mad. His lips were contorted, his eyes were starting out of their sockets. He drew his sword, rushed to the Greeks, and cried,
"Follow me against those who bar the road to us."
"O heir, live forever!" cried Patrokles, who drew his sword also. "Forward, descendants of Achilles!" said he, turning to his men. "We will teach those Egyptian cowkeepers not to stop us!"
Trumpets sounded the attack. Four short but erect Greek columns rushed forward, a cloud of dust rose, and a shout in honor of Ramses.
After a couple of minutes the Greeks found themselves in the presence of the Egyptian regiments, and hesitated.
"Forward!" cried the heir, rushing on, sword in hand.
The Greeks lowered their spears. On the opposing side there was a movement, a murmur flew along the ranks, and spears also were lowered.
"Who are ye, madmen?" asked a mighty voice.