I take the chances of war."
"To the rear with him, and put him with the other prisoners," said von
Boehlen to von Arnheim, and the young Prussian and two Uhlans escorted
him to the edge of the field where twenty or thirty French prisoners sat
on the ground.
"I take it," said von Arnheim, "that you and our captain have met
before."
"Yes, and the last time it was under circumstances that did not endear
me to him."
"If it was in war it will not be to your harm. Captain von Boehlen is a
stern but just man, and his conduct is strictly according to our
military code. You will stay here with the other prisoners under guard.
I hope to see you again."
With these polite words the young officer rode back to his chief, and
John's heart warmed to him because of his kindness. Then he sat down on
the grass and looked at those who were prisoners with him. Most of them
were wounded, but none seemed despondent. All were lying down, some
propped on their elbows, and they were watching and listening with the
closest attention. A half-dozen Germans, rifle in hand, stood near by.
John took his place on the grass by the side of a fair, slim young man
who carried his left arm in a bandage.
"Englishman?" said the young man.
"No, American."
"But you have been fighting for us, as your uniform shows. What
command?"
"General Vaugirard's, but I became separated from it earlier in the
day."
"I've heard of him. Great, fat man, as cool as ice and as brave as a
lion.
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