of Prussians, these dogs of Russians," said Ney, "we could take food and guns and powder from them." 

 "Doubtless," said Berthier, not caring to argue that point. 

 He bowed to the officers, as they saluted, and went out of the door muttering and arguing noisily and insubordinately, it must be admitted, and then turned to the table where the secretaries sat. One of them had laid his head down on his arms, stretched out on the table and was fast asleep. The marshal awoke him and dismissed him with most of the rest. From another Berthier took a paper. He examined it, signed it, sealed it, and handed it to the young officer on guard at the door. 

 "Your commission, monsieur," he said.  "Once I was young and full of enthusiasm and hope and determination. It is well for France that some of her children still retain those things." 

 "I thank the Prince de Wagram," said the young officer, bowing low, "and I beg his pardon for having spoken." 

 "The Emperor has forgiven," said Berthier indifferently.  "His absolution covers us all. At least if I fall behind you in those other qualities of youth I shall not fall behind you in devotion. Come, Maret," continued the grand marshal. 

 The two worthies turned away and went out. The long room sank into silence. A soldier came in after a while and replenished the fire, saluted and passed out. The pen of the busy secretary, the only one left of the group, ceased scratching on the paper. He, too, sank back in his chair asleep. The short day faded into twilight and then into darkness. From outside beyond the courtyard of the inn came confused noises, indicating moving bodies of men, the rumble of artillery, the clatter of cavalry, faint words of command. A light snow began to fall. It was intensely raw and cold. The officer picked up his cloak, wrapped it around him, and resumed his immobile guard. 

 

 

 CHAPTER II 

 THE EMPEROR DREAMS 

 Prev. P 14/217 next