"Outwardly there is more order, but the result is going to be the same." As though a negative reply to his faint-heartedness, he overheard the voice of a soldier reassuring a farmer: "We are retreating, yes--only that we may pounce upon the Boches with more strength.

Grandpa Joffre is going to put them in his pocket when and where he will." The mere sound of the Marshal's name revived Don Marcelo's hope.
Perhaps this soldier, who was keeping his faith intact in spite of the interminable and demoralizing marches, was nearer the truth than the reasoning and studious officers.
He passed the rest of the day making presents to the last detachments of the column.

His wine cellars were gradually emptying.

By order of dates, he continued distributing thousands of bottles stored in the subterranean parts of the castle.

By evening he was giving to those who appeared weakest bottles covered with the dust of many years.