"No," said Marteau reassuringly. "Will you let me pass, comrade? I am an old soldier of—the Empire." He had no hesitation in avowing himself under the circumstances. "See," he threw open his cloak, disclosing his uniform.
"Why, that is the uniform of this regiment!" exclaimed the amazed soldier.
"Yes."
"And you are——"
"I was Captain Marteau when with the regiment," returned the officer.
"I thought I knew you, sir. Yes, I remember it all now. You were cut down at the bridge at Arcis."
"Yes."
"I, too, was there. I was one of the few who managed to get away alive. But I did not run, monsieur. I did not go back until the order."
"I believe it."
"And this boy?"