India 2001 books

Laud. Father Jerome held a large crucifix in his hands,
and as he followed Cathelineau, he lifted it high above his head, to
encourage the men who were about to make the assault; hundreds of them
were on the verge of the trench as he did so; others were following them
closely; they were already within fire of the republican batteries, the
balls from which were falling among them; but, regardless of the firing,
they all fell on their knees, with their faces towards the earth, as
soon as they saw the crucifix in the hands of their priest; and there,
on the very field of battle, offered up a prayer that they might that
day be victorious.
"They will be cut down like grass, simpletons that they are," said
Stofflet; "besides, the first moment is everything; two hundred should
by this time have been within the camp."
"Let them alone," said M. d'Elbee, "they are quite right as they are;
they will not fight the worse for saying their prayers."
As he finished speaking, the men rose again, and rushed against the
earth-work.


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