"For our country, whose defence is entrusted to us! and for the honour of our flag!" "Glory!" said Gabriel, ironically.

"I know all about that.

Very often, seeing you all so young and inexperienced, so full of vain hopes, I have reconstructed in my own mind what might be called the psychology of the cadet.

I can guess all that you thought before entering the academy, and I foresee the bitter and crushing disillusion that awaits you on leaving it.

The history of wars and the artistic trappings of the uniform have seduced your youth.