In fact, you are to have the distinguished honor of carrying back despatches.

There, now; you had better join your brigade." "Could I not see my general once more?
It may be for the last time." "No, sir!" sternly replied Picton.

"Lord Wellington believes you under arrest.

It is as well he should suppose you obeyed his orders." There was a tone of sarcasm in these words that prevented my reply; and muttering my gratitude for his well-timed and kindly interference in my behalf, I bowed deeply and turned away.
"I say, sir!" said Picton, as he returned towards the church, "should anything befall,--that is, if, unfortunately, circumstances should make you in want and desirous of a staff appointment, remember that you are known to General Picton." Downcast and depressed by the news of my poor general, I wended my way with slow and uncertain steps towards the rampart.

A clear, cold, wintry sky and a sharp, bracing air made my wound, slight as it was, more painful, and I endeavored to reach the reserves, where I knew the hospital-staff had established, for the present, their quarters.