"To the advance-posts, Colonel."
"Why?"
"The firing has begun again."
"Go and tell them, that if it is nothing unusual, it is useless to reply. When the Turks are tired of throwing away ammunition, they will stop of themselves."
Several soldiers entered the courtyard, stamping heavily. Panteleieff lifted his torch and it was seen that they had some one in their midst.
"March on, march on, shaven pate! There is no chance of getting any rest with you fellows about; may the Devil take you!" the soldiers said, grumbling. It was evident that they were not yet aware of the officers' presence.
"Well, well! Must we then encourage you with a butt-end?"
"What is it, my children?" said the Colonel, rising.
"We are bringing a Turk, Colonel. We met him by chance—picked him up under a bush."
"Under a bush? How?"