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Had the Russian army been alone without any allies, it might

perhaps have been a long time before this consciousness of

mismanagement became a general conviction, but as it was, the

disorder was readily and naturally attributed to the stupid

Germans, and everyone was convinced that a dangerous muddle had

been occasioned by the sausage eaters.

"Why have we stopped? Is the way blocked? Or have we already come

up against the French?"

"No, one can't hear them. They'd be firing if we had."

"They were in a hurry enough to start us, and now here we stand

in the middle of a field without rhyme or reason. It's all those

damned Germans' muddling! What stupid devils!"

"Yes, I'd send them on in front, but no fear, they're crowding up

behind. And now here we stand hungry."

"I say, shall we soon be clear? They say the cavalry are blocking

the way," said an officer.

"Ah, those damned Germans! They don't know their own country!"

said another.

"What division are you?" shouted an adjutant, riding up.