human
Have you seen the Captain of the 8th? I ask him.
gpt
He has come back with his cheek still in bandages. His wound cannot be properly healed yet.
human
Yes, I have seen him! He certainly doesn't make a fuss about his wounds!
gpt
What do you think of the new men?... Do they impress you well?
human
Er ... yes!... Oh, yes!
gpt
What is wrong with them? I ask.
human
I can only speak for my own section of course; but they have at least sent me two corporals and a sergeant who seem to me sound, well-meaning sort of fellows.
gpt
Well-meaning enough, I grant you. You can always expect that. But it is true I am rather worried. You see, the new contingents seem to be comprised of nothing but non-coms., sergeants and corporals. What's the good of them? However hard you try, you can't be everywhere at the same time. Of course, while you are looking after your right, the left, unsupported, gives way.... I am sorry indeed Roux has been sent to hospital!
human
What! The Adjutant in hospital?
gpt
Yes! The day before yesterday. He'll be out of harness for some time. A good section leader lost!