"Not one has shown himself. They are quieter this morning. Yesterday they raged like madmen, but thank God, they are giving us a respite now."
"They have understood that they were wasting ammunition."
The Major signed to the prisoner to follow him and descended into the trench. A moment after, one of the Cossacks was at his side.
"What do you want?"
"One must take precautions, Major. We never know what may happen. The Turks are not very far away, you know."
"It is unnecessary."
"But, Major, your prisoner may escape."
"No, he won't; he has even promised to point me out the Turkish positions. Return to your post."
The Cossack went back. The two others rode in silence for half an hour. Finally the Major halted.
"Listen to me, Mahmoud Bey. The Turkish army is not very far from here. Escape, and go to Adrianople to find your children. You understand me? I have children also. Well, what are you waiting for? Go, escape, and be quick. There is no time to lose. I might change my mind," he added, half-smiling.