(How on earth did he know?)
He continued: "You will immediately become acting sub-lieutenant. If we both get through safely, I'll see that you get your commission."
He got back on to his horse, which his orderly brought up, and leaning across the animal's neck, said:
"In case the matter interests you, we are retiring because we chose to. Our line has not been forced. It's the enemy who can't hold out any longer. Only there's a detachment of Landwehr trying to turn us southwards."
I thanked him with a beam.
As I drew near to the platoon, Guillaumin raised his voice:
"Your new subaltern, lads!"
"Good luck to him!" Bouillon exclaimed.
There was a subdued murmur of satisfaction and approval. I must be forgiven for having noticed it. It was one of the great moments of my life.