"Don't hurry, I beg of you. I suppose I'm here to wait for you."
The company goes down to Bucy. Within a short time the six of us are installed with the Ronchards.
Another hunt for fleas. A vigorous offensive is necessary to prevent ourselves being devoured alive. The labour required to keep one's body clean becomes something herculean. The mud on coats and puttees refuses to dry. We give up the struggle.
Tuesday, 5th January.
Whilst the rest are away at drill I stay behind, the major having exempted me from duty. I seize the opportunity to do the house work and Jules gives me a helping hand.
It is Jules' dream to become a valet de chambre in Paris. His views on life as lived in the capital are unusual and lacking in precision.
He says to me—
"When peace is proclaimed, won't you take me back with you?"
"Listen to me, Jules, I don't want to hurt you, but I cannot afford more than one servant."