The attack was consequently expected from that quarter; and, according to the spies' reports, the day was fixed, and the station appointed on the opposite side of the Theiss.
There is a ferry between Szolnok and Czibakhaza, and the boat is guided by the simple means of a rope drawn across the river.
The boat was now on the opposite side, some persons having just crossed with the permission of the imperial party, who kept a patrol to guard the passage.
On the evening of the expected day, two hussars rode up to the ferry from the opposite side.
"Do you see that boat?" cried the elder of the two, as they reached the bank.
"I see it, corporal," replied the other, who appeared to be a recruit.
"Whether you see it or not, we must cross there."
"Very well, corporal."
"Don't argue with me when the order is to cross; we must cross, were a thousand fiery devils on the other side!—Hej! come out, thou slug!" he continued, knocking at the door of the boatman's hut.