Legionary John Bull found Legionary Feodor Kyrilovitch sitting on his cot polishing "Rosalie," as the soldier of France terms his bayonet. Several other Legionaries were engaged in astiquage and accoutrement cleaning. For the thousandth time, the English gentleman realised that one of the most irksome and maddening of the hardships and disabilities of the common soldier's life is its utter lack of privacy.
"Bonsoir, cher Boule," remarked Feodor Kyrilovitch, looking up as the English approached. "Have you seen my brother? He appears to have come in and changed and gone out without me."
Evidently the boy was anxious.
"Your brother is at Carmelita's," replied John Bull, and added: "Come over to my bed and sit beside me with your back to the room. I want to speak to you."
"Don't be alarmed," he continued as they seated themselves. "Your brother is absolutely all right."
The Russian gazed anxiously at the kindly face of the man whom he had instinctively liked and trusted from the first.
"Your brother is quite all right," continued the Englishman, "but I am afraid you will have to change your plans."
"Change our plans, Monsieur Boule?"
"Yes," replied the older man, as he laid his hand on Feodor's knee with a reassuring smile. "You will have to change your plans, for Mikhail can be Mikhail no longer."
The Russian bowed his head upon his hands with a groan.
