As he turned, Gauvain saw behind him Sergeant Radoub standing with downcast eyes, in the attitude of military salute.
"What is it, Sergeant Radoub?"
"Citizen commander, we, the men of the battalion of the Bonnet-Rouge, have a favor to ask of you."
"What is it?"
"To be killed."
"Ah!" exclaimed Gauvain.
"Will you grant us this favor?"
"Well, that depends," said Gauvain.
"It is just this, commander. Since the affair at Dol, you have been too careful of us. There are twelve of us still."
"Well?"