'I am one of your garrison of Phalsbourg,' I replied, with confidence, assured that to falter now, would destroy me.
'Does any one know this man?' asked Schreckhorn, looking around him; but not one of all the soldiers who crowded near, responded to his question.
'The Count de Bitche knows me well, and will answer for my honour and courage,' said I.
'We have only your word for that; but does it look like either honour or courage to skulk under this pile of leaves during an action? You say you are one of our soldiers?'
'But I am not one of your soldiers.'
'What then?'
'A simple volunteer.'
'I do not recognise you.'
'How should you, M. Schreckhorn, when you came to Phalsbourg but yesterday or the day before?'
'Peste! that is true; but then you cannot have any objection to return with us.'