Then he glanced at the fields across which they had come. For two or
three miles they were sprinkled with the fallen, the red and blue of the
French uniform showing vividly against the green grass. But there was
little time for looking that way and again he turned his glasses in
front. The regiment had taken cover behind a low ridge, and six rapid
firers were sending a fierce hail on the German lines. But the men under
orders from Bougainville, withheld the fire of their rifles for the
present.
Bougainville himself stood up as became a leader of men, and lowered his
sword for the first time. The cap had sunk all the way down the blade
and picking it off he put it back on his head. He had obtained glasses
also, probably from some fallen officer, and he walked back and forth
seeking a weak spot in the enemy's line, into which he could charge with
his men.
John admired him. His was no frenzied rage, but a courage, measured and
stern. The springs of power hidden in him had been touched and he stood
forth, a born leader.
"How does it happen," said John, "that you're in command?"
"Our officers were all in front," replied Bougainville, "when our
regiment was swept by many shells. When they ceased bursting upon us and
among us the officers were no longer there. The regiment was about to
break. I could not bear to see that, and seizing the sword, I hoisted my
cap upon it. The rest, perhaps, you saw. The men seem to trust me.
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