unusual dress for a Dire, the British army being, at the time I write of,
still in the age of breeches and gaiters, or tall boots, long cues and
pipeclay--that is, those troops which I had seen at home, although I
believe the great Duke had already relaxed a number of these absurdities
in Spain.

His single--breasted coat was buttoned up to his throat, and without an
inch of lace except on his crimson collar, which fitted close round his
neck, and was richly embroidered with gold acorns and oak leaves, as were
the crimson cuffs to his sleeves. He wore two immense and very handsome
gold epaulets.

"My good boy," said he, after the officer who had captured me had told his
story--"so your Government thinks the Emperor is retreating from the
Elbe?"

I was a tolerable French scholar as times went, and answered him as well
as I could.

"I have said nothing about that, sir; but, from your question, I presume
you command the rear--guard, Colonel?"

"How strong is your squadron on the river?" said he, parrying the
question.

"There is only one sloop of war, sir"--and I spoke the truth.

He looked at me, and smiled incredulously; and then continued "I don't
command the rear--guard, sir--but I waste time--are the boats ready?"