I was forced to act. I felt my mind lashed by the burning blast of decision.
I began by rebuckling my pack behind my shoulders. Freedom for one's arms was an obvious necessity.
I stood up and said in a firm tone:
"We've not done yet; we've got to get through!"
My cheeks were scorching. Everyone was looking at me. I think I gave the impression of the most absolute coolness.
"Come along! Come along! Bouillon...!"
I reached the gap without hurrying myself. Pffmm! Pffmm! That terrible buzzing.... I got through and shouted imperiously:
"Hurry up! Hurry up there!"
I was standing up. I had set them in motion. Bouillon, Lamalou, and some others hurried along, bending down.... Someone shouted: