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The regimental commander, flushing, ran to his horse, seized the

stirrup with trembling hands, threw his body across the saddle,

righted himself, drew his saber, and with a happy and resolute

countenance, opening his mouth awry, prepared to shout. The

regiment fluttered like a bird preening its plumage and became

motionless.

"Att-ention!" shouted the regimental commander in a soul-shaking

voice which expressed joy for himself, severity for the regiment,

and welcome for the approaching chief.