While he had the time he took a yellow sheet of paper out of his pocket and read the words pasted on it for the fourth time. Somehow they never changed; they always read the same. And each time he got a sinking sensation in his stomach when he read them.
Captain Alfred Lowary put the yellow paper away quickly when the three junior officers of the Battery reported. He returned their salutes in a lazy sort of way. He took off his helmet again.
"The orders are the same as briefing," he said. "Lieutenant Kastner will take the third platoon across the river to the West side. The second platoon, Lieutenant Tudor, will move North of the entrance on this side and take up position in reserve. Lieutenant Meyers will set up defense on this side." He inhaled on the cigarette and looked at Tudor. "Place your machine guns carefully. I want a cross-fire on that slight bend on the road down there."
Tudor nodded.
The Captain pinpointed Meyers with his eyes. "You've got the 'hot-spot'.... Just remember.... No one gets on the Bridge!"
"But—" Meyers began.
"No buts. I said no one. Understand?"
Meyers' "Yes, sir," was barely audible.
"Any questions?" the Captain asked.
They shook their heads negative, except Meyers. He said, "Just one thing, Captain."