"Dead," said the cousin, as they drew the body to the grass. "And a Prussian."
There was a stream of blood in the road, men were falling, riding over each other, dropping to death everywhere. On they came, faster and more furious.
"Save us! Save us from Napoleon!"
Hans flung open the gate, and in rushed two wild-eyed women caught in their flight by the hussars, who seeing them out of their way, rushed on after higher game.
"Vive l'Empereur! Vive l'Empereur!" The cry rose even above the cannon roar. Hans and Conrad looked each other in the eyes.
"The Prussians, cousin," began Hans.
"Were first," said Herr Schmelze.
The shoulders of the brave old soldier of Frederick the Great drooped with shame, the fat old farmer coloured.
It was the first time Hans had seen a Prussian soldier turn his back on an enemy, and a tear stole down his cheek.
"Come," said Herr Schmelze, "let us go to the height and look down on the battle. Ulrich," he called to his son, as he passed the house, "stay here and take care of your mother."