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"He higher iss dan I in rank," said the German colonel of the

hussars, flushing and addressing an adjutant who had ridden up,

"so let him do what he vill, but I cannot sacrifice my hussars...

Bugler, sount ze retreat!"

But haste was becoming imperative. Cannon and musketry, mingling

together, thundered on the right and in the center, while the

capotes of Lannes' sharpshooters were already seen crossing the

milldam and forming up within twice the range of a musket shot.

The general in command of the infantry went toward his horse with

jerky steps, and having mounted drew himself up very straight and

tall and rode to the Pavlograd commander. The commanders met with

polite bows but with secret malevolence in their hearts.

"Once again, Colonel," said the general, "I can't leave half my

men in the wood. I beg of you, I beg of you," he repeated, "to

occupy the position and prepare for an attack."