"The commander reflected. 'How long have they been gone with him?'
"'Only a short time, sir.'
"'Good. Step forward!' he said sharply to the German officer. The latter obeyed silently. 'Captain,' said the Frenchman, 'you and your men have ransacked this house, abused a sick woman and carried away her husband. A fine business for those who call themselves men. You deserve to be shot, you and all your hounds. However, I will spare your life on one condition. It is that the father of this household shall be set at liberty and returned to his home before nightfall. Your troops will not be far from here. Who in command?'
"'A captain.'
"'Then one of you will ride and rejoin your detachment—'
"'I will go,' interjected the commander of the dragoons.
A FRENCH DRAGOON DRAGGED HIM IN.
"'Oh, no, captain; your presence is required here. Come here!' he ordered, beckoning to one of the Bavarians, 'and listen well to what I shall say to you. You will immediately mount your horse and as quickly as possible rejoin your detachment.'
"'Oui, monsieur le Capitaine.'