But, on the other hand, the wrapping keeps me so hot that I might almost as well lie uncovered in the rain." The staff had intended taking a few tents with them, but these were practically of no use at all, as all canvas had to be lowered by the time that "lights out" sounded, and after that hour no loud talking was permitted in the camp.

This might have been a privation, had the weather been fine, but even the most joyous spirit had little desire for conversation, when the rain was falling in bucketfuls over him.
The officers of the white division lay down by their men, in the position they would occupy if an attack by the enemy took place.

The officers of the Egyptian regiments lay together, just in rear of their men.

As soon as the "last post" sounded, absolute silence reigned.

The sentries, placed a very short distance out, kept their senses of sight and hearing on the alert; and with eye and ear strove to detect the approach of a lurking foe.