at Schweidnitz, where there were sixteen thousand men under the
torture of the army surgeons, many of whom had not their wounds
dressed till the third day.

I was near three months before I recovered the use of my hand: I
nevertheless rejoined my corps, continued to perform my duty, and as
usual accompanied the King when he went to reconnoitre. For some
time past he had placed confidence in me, and his kindness towards
me continually increased, which raised my gratitude even to
enthusiasm.

I also performed the service of adjutant during this campaign, a
circumstantial account of which no person is better enabled to write
than myself, I having been present at all that passed. I was the
scholar of the greatest master the art of war ever knew, and who
believed me worthy to receive his instructions; but the volume I am
writing would be insufficient to contain all that personally relates
to myself.

I must here mention an adventure that happened at this time, and
which will show the art of the great Frederic in forming youth for
his service, and devotedly attaching them to his person.

I was exceedingly fond of hunting, in which, notwithstanding it was
severely forbidden, I indulged myself. I one day returned, laden
with pheasants; but judge my astonishment and fears when I saw the
army had decamped, and that it was with difficulty that I could
overtake the rear-guard.

In this my distress, I applied to an officer of hussars, who