When I received his summons I went gladly to his headquarters, for I was always a great favourite of his, and there was no officer of whom he thought more highly. That was the best of serving with those good old generals, that they knew enough to be able to pick out a fine soldier when they saw one. He was seated alone in his tent, with his chin upon his hand, and his brow as wrinkled as if he had been asked for a subscription. He smiled, however, when he saw me before him.
"Good day, Colonel Gerard."
"Good day, Marshal."
"How is the Third of Hussars?"
"Seven hundred incomparable men upon seven hundred excellent horses."
"And your wounds—are they healed?"
"My wounds never heal, Marshal," I answered.
"And why?"
"Because I have always new ones."
"General Rapp must look to his laurels," said he, his face all breaking into wrinkles as he laughed. "He has had twenty-one from the enemy's bullets, and as many from Larrey's knives and probes. Knowing that you were hurt, Colonel, I have spared you of late."
"Which hurt me most of all."
"Tut, tut! Since the English got behind these
