my right, so as to keep our connections nearer, and to afford
him help, if necessary."

Without a word Ralph turned his horse, and galloped off at full
speed. A quarter of an hour's riding, and he rode up to General
Sonis; who was just calling upon several regiments, among whom were
the Papal Zouaves, to make a charge.

This fine body of men--the Papal Zouaves--acquired, and justly
acquired, more glory than any other French corps throughout the
war. They behaved, upon every occasion, magnificently. In the first
fight at Orleans, upon this 2nd of December, and afterwards at the
battle of Le Mans, the Zouaves of Charette fought with the courage
of lions. A great many of them were men of good family. All were
inspired by the ardor and spirit of their chief. Their uniform was
similar in cut to that of the French Zouaves; but was of a quiet
gray color, trimmed with a little red braid.

Ralph rode up, and delivered his message.

"I am going to carry that position, sir," the general said; "and in
that case I shall not have to fall back at all, and General Chanzy
can close up on me--throwing back his left, so as not to be
outflanked. If you wait a few minutes, you will see the result of
this charge.

"Now, gentlemen."

So saying he rode, with his staff, in front of the line.

"Forward, men!" he shouted, drawing his sword.

Ralph had naturally fallen in with the staff, and was now able to
see and admire the daring of the proposed movement which, if
successful, would have changed the fortunes of the day. Upon an
eminence, some three-quarters of a mile distant, were several
batteries of artillery; supported by a large body of infantry, who
extended to within about half the distance between the French line
and their own reserves. The fire was terrific--so terrific that
several of the French regiments refused to advance. Others started;
but withered away so fast, under the deadly fire, that only two
corps--besides the Zouaves--persevered to the end.

The Zouaves advanced at a double, but with as much coolness as if
on parade. They did not fire a shot, but made straight at the
Prussian infantry. As they approached the enemy's line, General
Sonis and his staff fell in between the Zouaves, and a regiment of
Mobiles next to them, in order not to interfere with the fire.

"For God and France!" Charette shouted, as he led the charge; and
the whole regiment responded, as one man, "For God and France!"

So fierce was this on