"Poor friend!" said the General, piteously; "and that's the end! Will you grant me a favour, sir?"
"Name it."
"As the General must die, it would be a consolation to him to have a friend by his side."
"No doubt it would."
"Allow me to be his guard. I am sure he will be happy to know that it is I who have the duty of watching over him and leading him to death. And then I shall not, at least, abandon him till the last minute."
"So be it,—your request is granted. Have you anything else to say? I shall be happy to serve you."
"No, I thank you, sir; that is all I desired,—Ah! one word more!"
"Speak."
"Can I be allowed to take this guard soon?"
"Immediately, if you like."