Prussians were supposed to be. Francois halted at a farmhouse where he
was known. The farmer's wife was feeding the pigs, and she did not see
him until he said:

"'Where are the Boches?'

"'Francois! What do you here?' she exclaimed.

"'I come to see my grandmother. But I see none of the enemy.'

"'Unhappy child, there are thousands of them over yonder. Do not go
on, I beg of you. You surely will be shot.'

"'I go to see my grandmother. Good day, madame.' Francois plodded on
across the fields in the direction indicated by the farmer's wife.
Suddenly he saw a troop of Prussian cavalry approaching him at a
gallop.

"'Halt!' commanded the captain of the troop when they drew up near the
boy. 'What do you here?'

"'Walking, sir. I go to see my grandmother who is ill.'

"The Prussian laughed. 'Do you not know that the villagers have been
ordered to remain at home and that he who disobeys this order will be
shot?' questioned the commander, sternly.

"'Ah, sir, that is well for the grown men and women, but for children
who go to see their sick grandmothers--'