"Not exactly," replied the doctor. "It is a peculiar mania, however. We had several dozens of cases the day after the great drive,—in fact, at the very time you were brought here,—of Germans who were brought in suffering from that ailment."
"What is it?" asked Ralph.
"It has been called 'War Psychosis,'" answered the doctor.
"What is the cause of it?" asked Ralph.
"I suppose it is brought about by the patient being compelled to witness the most terrible sights," answered the doctor. "It occurs where the man has a peculiarly sensitive or nervous organization."
"A man like that cannot be very brave, I suppose," said Alfred.
"It is not that at all. Lack of bravery, or fear has nothing to do with it. I have seen the strongest men break down under it," said the doctor.
"Is it a fatal disease?" asked Alfred.
"No, it seems to leave them almost as suddenly as they are affected by it. Do you see that tall man over to the left—the one who is swinging his head to and fro, and staring at those about him?"
"Yes, I have frequently watched him during the week," said Ralph.