“If you are willing, sergeant,” said Jean-Victor rising, “I will take his duty, he is sleeping so soundly—and he is my comrade.”
“As you please.”
The five men left, and the snoring recommenced.
But half an hour later the noise of near and rapid firing burst upon the night. In an instant every man was on his feet, and each with his hand on the chamber of his gun, stepped cautiously out, looking earnestly along the road, lying white in the moonlight.
“What time is it?” asked the duke. “I was to go on duty to-night.”
“Jean-Victor went in your place.”
At that moment a soldier was seen running toward them along the road.
“What is it?” they cried as he stopped, out of breath.
“The Prussians have attacked us, let us fall back to the redoubt.”
“And your comrades?”