So greatly had the regiment lost in officers that the survivors were compelled to do more than double duty, and for several days I had not an hour to myself.
One event, though not exactly bearing on my story, must be chronicled, since it shows the generosity of Görgei's nature.
During the fierce fighting on the ninth of April the Austrian general, Gatz, had fallen while at the head of his men, and our chief, anxious to honour the memory of a gallant adversary, did on a large scale what we had done for Von Arnstein, and accorded him a magnificent military funeral.
The display was of a most imposing description, and when the body of the brave Austrian had been laid to rest, the ceremony was concluded by the discharge of a hundred guns.
Meanwhile, grave events were taking place. Just as the battle of Isaszeg had cut off the Austrian right wing, so now their left was completely broken up, and it became plain that Windischgratz must evacuate Pesth.
"Another stroke like the last," said Rakoczy one evening as we sat chatting in his room, "and the thing will be done."
"Unless Kossuth's party should try to drive too hard a bargain."
"Oh no," replied the colonel cheerfully. "The Austrians know exactly what we want. The emperor has only to be crowned King of Hungary, and swear to restore our ancient rights. He will do that as soon as our army appears under the walls of Vienna."
"It isn't much, especially when--"
A loud banging at the door cut the sentence short, and in walked my brother, looking flushed and excited.