Pagina 332 di 3800

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.