human
Gentlemen, said I to my brother officers, as we came together,
gpt
Our only chance is to fight them where we stand. There are four to one,
human
We have no other chance, Captain,
gpt
But it is not their intention to fight _us_. Their design is to starve us. See! they are picketing their horses, knowing they can easily overtake us if we attempt to leave the inclosure.
human
Cannot we move in a hollow square?
gpt
But what is a hollow square of fifty men? and against four times that number of cavalry, with lances and lazos? No, no; they would shiver it with a single charge. Our only hope is that we may be able to hold out until our absence from camp may bring a detachment to our relief.
human
And why not send for it? inquired the major, who had scarcely been asked for his advice, but whose wits had been sharpened by the extremity of his danger.
gpt
Why not send for a couple of regiments?
human
How are we to send, Major? asked Clayley, looking on the major's proposition as ridiculous under the circumstances.
gpt
Have you a pigeon in your pocket?
human
Why?--how? There's Hercules runs like a hare; stick one of your fellows in the saddle, and I'll warrant him to camp in an hour.
gpt
You are right, Major, said I, catching at the major's proposal;
human
Why do you hate it, Captain?
gpt
You might not understand my reasons, Major.
human
Who will volunteer to ride an express to camp?
gpt
Which of you remembers the course, that you could follow it in a gallop?
human
I know a shorter one, Captain, by Mata Cordera.
gpt
Ha! Raoul, you know the country. You are the man.