"We are—?"
"We are beaten, sire."
The emperor arose from his seat.
"It is impossible," said he in a quick manner.
"The Russian army has taken flight."
"You lie!" cried Nicholas with a frightful explosion of anger.
"Sire—"
"You lie. My soldiers never fly."
"Sire, I have told you the truth."
"You lie, I say, you lie."