human
I feared as much, said the captain after a momentary pause;
gpt
I feared that some military stratagem lay at the foundation of the sudden disappearance of the French soldiers. You know that within the last few days the passes have been entirely free, so that our patrols could wander unharmed over the mountains, while before, they were fired upon from every cleft in the rocks. The enemy only withdrew for a little space to make us feel more secure; but meantime he has been uniting his forces; now hidden away in their inaccessible fastnesses, they will rush forth to strike us a mortal blow.
human
The all-important question, said the major,
gpt
Wholly so, Herr Major, added the young officer, who at these last words, had turned to his superior.
human
The French hold the mountain roads as well as the pathways which lead along the cliffs on the other side of the river. It must have happened very recently, for this morning the way was clear; but they now have entire possession, and every patrol, every foot-traveller they get a glimpse of, is shot down without question.
gpt
And if they seize our men in that narrow pass, not a single one will leave it alive, cried the major excitedly.
human
They will be attacked both in front and in the rear, and shot at by men concealed on the heights. It is a desperate situation!
gpt
Could not a messenger be sent over to E.? asked the adjutant.
human
The way there is unobstructed.
gpt
But he would have to go half around the mountains. It would take too long; at early dawn the batallion will be on the march; if the warning does not arrive by three in the morning, it will be too late!
human
Herr Major! The voice of young Lieutenant Witte sounded somewhat timid as he ventured to give counsel, but the most courageous determination beamed from his eyes.
gpt
There is perhaps one resource, the simplest of all. We might hurl ourselves with all our available strength upon the enemy, overthrow him, and make the path free to our comrades.
human
The advice does you all honor, Lieutenant Witte, but it could only come from a three-and-twenty year old head: it is not practicable. You have heard that the enemy has a three-fold strength; the situation makes it tenfold. We should share the fate which threatens our men without being able to rescue them.