Samacheer Kalvi Class 12 English Solutions Poem 6 Incident of The French Camp

Warm Up

Textual Questions

Question 1. Fill in the blanks choosing the words from the box given and complete the summary of the poem:
The poet Robert Browning narrates an incident at the French Camp in the war of 1809 between France and Austria, in a (a) ______ version. He describes the brave action of a (b) ______ soldier, whose heroic devotion to duty and his (c) ______ in it is inspiring and worthy of (d) ______. During the attack of the French army on Ratisbon, Napoleon was anxious about the (e) ______. Austrians were defending Ratisbon with great (f) ______ and courage. Napoleon was watching the war standing on a (g) ______ near the battlefield. All of a sudden a rider appeared from the closed smoke and dust. Riding at great speed, jumping and leaping, he approached the mound where Napoleon stood. As he came closer, the narrator noticed that the rider, a young boy, was severely wounded. But the rider showed no sign of pain and smiling in joy, jumped off the horse and gave the happy news of (h) ______ to the emperor. He exclaimed with pride that French had (i) ______ Ratisbon and he himself had hoisted the flag of France. When Napoleon heard the news, his plans (j) ______ up like fire. His eyes (k) ______ when he saw that the soldier was severely wounded. Like a caring mother eagle, the emperor asked if he was wounded. The (l) ______ soldier replied proudly that he was killed and died heroically.
Answer:
(a) dramatic
(b) valiant
(c) pride
(d) admiration
(e) result
(f) determination
(g) mound
(h) victory
(i) conquered
(j) soared
(k) softened
(l) wounded
In simple words: The poem tells a dramatic story of a brave soldier's pride and admiration. He rode with determination to share the victory after conquering Ratisbon, despite his wounds. Napoleon's eyes softened upon seeing him.

🎯 Exam Tip: When filling in blanks for a summary, read the full passage first to understand the context. Then, choose words that best fit the meaning and flow of each sentence, ensuring the overall story remains coherent.

2. Based on your understanding of the poem, answer the following questions in one or two sentences each:

Question a. Who do you think is the narrator of the poem?
Answer: A French soldier is the narrator of the poem. He shares the story from his perspective within the French camp.
In simple words: A French soldier is telling the story.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the viewpoint from which the story is told. Look for clues in the text that suggest who is speaking.

Question b. Where was the narrator when the incident happened?
Answer: The narrator was in the French camp when the incident happened. He was likely observing the events unfold from there.
In simple words: The narrator was in the French camp.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to setting details. The location of the narrator often helps understand their perspective and what they can see.

Question c. Who took the city of Ratisbon by storm?
Answer: French soldiers, led by Marshall Lannes, took the city of Ratisbon by storm. This shows their coordinated effort and leadership.
In simple words: Marshall Lannes led French soldiers to capture Ratisbon.

🎯 Exam Tip: When a question asks "who," provide the specific names or groups mentioned in the text for accuracy.

Question d. Where was Napoleon standing on the day of the attack on the city of Ratisbon?
Answer: Napoleon was standing on a little mound near the battlefield. This position allowed him to observe the battle's progress.
In simple words: Napoleon stood on a small hill near the fighting.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note specific locations mentioned in the poem as they often highlight important strategic points or character positions.

Question e. Describe the posture of Napoleon.
Answer: Napoleon's neck was pushed forward, and he kept his legs wide with arms locked behind his back. This stance made him look steady, as if balancing against the heavy thoughts in his mind about the battle.
In simple words: Napoleon stood with his neck out, legs wide, and arms behind his back, deep in thought.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing a posture, use descriptive adjectives and verbs to paint a clear picture of the physical stance.

Question f. Who came galloping on a horse to Napoleon?
Answer: A young soldier came galloping on a horse to Napoleon. He was rushing to deliver an important message.
In simple words: A young soldier rode quickly to Napoleon.

🎯 Exam Tip: Key characters in a narrative often arrive in memorable ways; remember who they are and how they appear.

Question g. What does the phrase 'full galloping' suggest?
Answer: The phrase 'full galloping' suggests full speed. It indicates that the rider was moving as fast as possible.
In simple words: 'Full galloping' means riding very fast.

🎯 Exam Tip: Analyze phrases for their implied meaning. Figurative language often conveys intensity or urgency.

Question h. Why was the rider in a hurry?
Answer: The rider was in a hurry to deliver the happy news of victory to his emperor. He wanted to inform Napoleon quickly about their success.
In simple words: The rider rushed to tell the emperor about their win.

🎯 Exam Tip: Actions often reveal motivations. Understanding why a character does something adds depth to your comprehension.

Question i. What did the rider do when he reached Napoleon?
Answer: He jumped off his horse when he reached Napoleon. This quick action showed his urgency and respect.
In simple words: He got off his horse when he met Napoleon.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to the sequence of events. What happens immediately after a character arrives is often important.

Question j. Why did the rider keep his lips compressed?
Answer: The rider kept his lips pressed tightly together so that blood would not be visible in his mouth. He was trying to hide his severe injury.
In simple words: He kept his lips pressed to hide the blood from his wound.

🎯 Exam Tip: Character actions, even small ones, can reveal their inner state or physical condition. Look for hidden meanings.

Question k. Where did the rider plant the French flag after Ratisbon was captured?
Answer: The rider had planted the French flag at the Marketplace in Ratisbon. This was a symbolic act of conquest and triumph.
In simple words: He planted the French flag in Ratisbon's main market.

🎯 Exam Tip: Important actions like planting a flag are usually described with a specific location. Note these details.

Question l. What was Napoleon's reaction to hearing the news of victory?
Answer: Napoleon's eyes flashed and his plans soared up like fire when he heard the news of victory. He was filled with excitement and renewed energy.
In simple words: Napoleon's eyes shone brightly, and his plans grew big and fast when he heard they won.

🎯 Exam Tip: Character reactions, especially those involving emotions or physical responses, are important for understanding their personality and the story's impact.

Question m. When did the narrator find that the boy was badly wounded?
Answer: Soon after the boy revealed that Ratisbon had been captured and how he had bravely flown the French flag, Napoleon found that the boy was wounded. The truth of his injury became clear after his declaration.
In simple words: Napoleon found out the boy was hurt after he told about capturing Ratisbon and raising the flag.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to the timing of revelations. When a new piece of information is disclosed, it often marks a turning point.

Question n. Why did Napoleon's eyes become soft as a mother eagle's eyes?
Answer: Napoleon's eyes became soft as a mother eagle's eyes because he saw the young soldier was severely wounded. This showed his deep care and concern, like a mother protecting her young.
In simple words: Napoleon's eyes softened like a mother eagle's because he saw how badly the young soldier was hurt.

🎯 Exam Tip: Similes and metaphors are used to create vivid imagery. Explain what the comparison means in the context of the story.

Question o. How did the young soldier face his end?
Answer: The young soldier died with a smile frozen on his lips. He faced his end proudly and heroically, glad to have served his emperor and country.
In simple words: The young soldier died with a smile, showing he was proud and brave.

🎯 Exam Tip: The ending of a character's journey often emphasizes their core traits. Focus on the manner of their death to understand their character.

4. Read the lines given below and answer the questions that follow:

Question a) Legs wide, arms locked behind, As if to balance the prone brow Oppressive with its mind.
i. Whose action is described here?
Answer: Napoleon's action is described here. The lines capture his commanding and thoughtful presence.
In simple words: These lines describe Napoleon.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the subject of the action described in the poetic lines. Contextual clues usually point to the character being referred to.

ii. What is meant by prone brow?
Answer: The phrase 'prone brow' means an eyebrow inclined downward. It suggests a look of deep thought, worry, or seriousness.
In simple words: 'Prone brow' means a frown or a worried look.

🎯 Exam Tip: Define poetic terms based on their context within the poem. Consider how the phrase contributes to the character's portrayal.

iii. What is his state of mind?
Answer: His state of mind is filled with anxiety, and his eagerness caused him to rush things. He was deeply concerned about the battle's outcome.
In simple words: He was anxious and very eager.

🎯 Exam Tip: Inferred emotions are important. Look for words that suggest feelings or mental states, even if not explicitly stated.

Question b) 'You're wounded!' 'Nay', his soldier's pride Touched to the quick, he said:
i. Why did the boy contradict Napoleon's words?
Answer: The boy felt proud to die for his own country. So he contradicted Napoleon's words, saying that he was killed, not just wounded, to emphasize his ultimate sacrifice.
In simple words: The boy was proud to die for his country, so he said he was killed, not just wounded.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the difference between "wounded" and "killed" in the context of sacrifice. The soldier's choice of words highlights his pride.

ii. Why was his pride touched?
Answer: His pride was touched quickly because he took joy and thrill in giving his life for his own country. Being called "wounded" instead of "killed" seemed to lessen his sacrifice.
In simple words: His pride was touched because he felt great joy in dying for his country.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to strong emotional responses like pride. They often reveal a character's deepest values and beliefs.

Question c) A film of the mother eagle's eye When her bruised eaglet breathes
i. Who is compared to the mother eagle in the above lines?
Answer: Napoleon is compared to the mother eagle in these lines. This comparison highlights his protective and caring nature.
In simple words: Napoleon is compared to the mother eagle.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the subject of a simile or metaphor. Understanding who or what is being compared is the first step in analyzing literary devices.

ii. Explain the comparison.
Answer: Napoleon's feelings at that moment were like those of a mother eagle who worries and gets confused when her young one is badly hurt and close to death. Just as a mother eagle tries hard to save her eaglet, Napoleon showed deep care and concern when he saw the severely wounded boy, reflecting a maternal affection.
In simple words: Like a mother eagle worries about her hurt baby, Napoleon felt deep care and sadness for the badly wounded soldier.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining a comparison, describe both elements and the shared quality that makes the comparison effective, linking it back to the narrative.

iii. Why did Napoleon's eyes become soft as a mother eaglet's eyes?
Answer: Napoleon's eyes became soft because the soldier was severely wounded. Seeing the young man's suffering moved him deeply, invoking a caring, protective response.
In simple words: Napoleon's eyes became soft because the soldier was very badly hurt.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect emotional reactions to their direct causes within the story. The severity of the wound is the key trigger here.

Additional Questions:

Question 1) “You know, we French stormed Ratisbon A mile or so away".
a) Who does 'we' refer to?
Answer: 'We' refers to the French people. Specifically, it refers to the French army who participated in the battle.
In simple words: 'We' means the French people.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify pronouns and their antecedents. Understanding who "we" refers to clarifies the speaker's group affiliation.

b) What does the word 'stormed' mean?
Answer: The word 'stormed' means a sudden violent attack. It implies a swift and aggressive military action.
In simple words: 'Stormed' means a quick, strong attack.

🎯 Exam Tip: Define key vocabulary words in their given context. The meaning of "stormed" changes depending on whether it refers to a storm or an attack.

Question 2) " On a little mound, Napoleon Stood on our storming- day, With neck out-thrust, you fancy how”.
a) Where was Napoleon standing?
Answer: Napoleon was standing on a mound near the battlefield. This elevated spot offered him a clear view of the ongoing conflict.
In simple words: Napoleon stood on a small hill near the fighting area.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always note the specific location mentioned in descriptive lines. The setting often provides important context.

b) Give the meaning of 'mound'
Answer: 'Mound' means a hillock or a small hill. It refers to a raised area of ground.
In simple words: 'Mound' means a small hill.

🎯 Exam Tip: Provide clear, simple synonyms or definitions for vocabulary words, especially those with multiple meanings.

Question 3) "A rider, bound on bound Full-galloping, not bridle drew”
a) Who is the rider here?
Answer: The rider here is a young French soldier. He is rushing back from the battle with urgent news.
In simple words: The rider is a young French soldier.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect descriptive phrases to the character they refer to. The rider is a central figure in the poem.

b) Explain full-galloping
Answer: Full-galloping means the young French soldier was rushing towards Napoleon, riding his horse at its top speed. He was not holding back at all.
In simple words: 'Full-galloping' means riding a horse as fast as it can possibly go.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain the full meaning of descriptive actions. "Full-galloping" is not just fast, but the fastest possible speed for a horse.

c) Where was the French flag planted after the victory?
Answer: The French flag was planted at the market area in Ratisbon after the victory. This publicly declared their conquest of the city.
In simple words: The French flag was put up in the market in Ratisbon after they won.

🎯 Exam Tip: Specific locations for important events, like flag planting, are often significant. Remember these details.

Question 4) "So tight he kept his lips compressed”
a) What does the word 'compressed' refer to?
Answer: The word 'compressed' refers to pressed together. It means his lips were squeezed tightly closed.
In simple words: 'Compressed' means squeezed together.

🎯 Exam Tip: Define specific action verbs or adjectives to show understanding of the text's precise meaning.

b) Why did he keep his lips compressed?
Answer: He kept his lips compressed because his mouth was full of blood. He tightly sealed his lips to prevent the blood from oozing out, hiding his severe injury.
In simple words: He pressed his lips together to hide the blood in his mouth.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect actions to their underlying reasons. The soldier's action of compressing his lips is a direct result of his injury and desire to hide it.

c) How did the young soldier face his end?
Answer: The young soldier faced his end proudly and heroically. He died with a smile, showing his satisfaction in having served his country.
In simple words: He died bravely and with pride.

🎯 Exam Tip: Descriptions of a character's death are often powerful. Summarize the key emotions and actions to show how they faced their end.

Question 5) "The chief's eye flashed: but presently softened itself as sheathes"
a) Whose eyes are referred to as 'the chief's eyes'?
Answer: The chief's eyes are referred to as Napoleon's eyes. Napoleon is the main leader or "chief" in this context.
In simple words: 'The chief's eyes' means Napoleon's eyes.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify indirect references to characters. "The chief" is a title that refers to a specific person in the story.

b) Give the meaning of 'sheathes'
Answer: 'Sheathes' means covers. In this context, it suggests Napoleon's eyes, previously flashing with joy, were now covered or dimmed by a softened expression of concern.
In simple words: 'Sheathes' means covers or dims.

🎯 Exam Tip: Provide a simple definition for the word, and if helpful, briefly explain its specific implication in the given line.

d) Explain the following lines with reference to the context:

Question i. Then off there flung in smiling joy, And held himself erect
Answer:
Reference: These lines are from the poem "Incident of the French Camp", written by Robert Browning.
Context: The poet praises the heroic actions of the young soldier.
Explanation: Even though the soldier was terribly wounded, he showed great courage and confidence. He jumped off his horse with a joyful smile and stood upright, showing no sign of pain, despite his injuries. This highlights his incredible determination and spirit. His ability to mask such severe wounds speaks to his extreme resolve.
In simple words: These lines are from Robert Browning's poem. They show the brave soldier, badly hurt, still smiling and standing tall after riding in joy.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining lines, always state the poem and poet, provide the immediate context, and then explain the deeper meaning or significance of the lines.

Question ii. 'I'm killed, Sire!' And, his Chief beside, Smiling, the boy fell dead.
Answer:
Reference: These lines are from the poem "Incident of the French Camp", written by Robert Browning.
Context: The poet praises the heroic behaviour of the young soldier.
Explanation: Napoleon was very happy with the victory but suddenly realized the soldier was seriously wounded. He asked if the soldier was hurt. The soldier replied that he was almost killed, showing his pride in his sacrifice. As he said this, he fell beside the emperor, dying with a smile. This emphasizes his unwavering loyalty and brave spirit even at the very end. The soldier's last words were a testament to his ultimate sacrifice for his nation.
In simple words: From Robert Browning's poem, this shows the brave soldier dying next to Napoleon. He smiles, saying he's killed, not just wounded, highlighting his great sacrifice.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the climax of the scene. The soldier's last words and action define his character and the poem's central message.

Question iii. To see your flag-bird flap his vans Where I, to heart's desire, Perched him!'
Answer:
Reference: These lines are from the poem "Incident of the French Camp", written by Robert Browning.
Context: The poet describes how the young soldier informed Napoleon of their success.
Explanation: The soldier felt great joy and pride because, with his own hands, he had flown the French flag over Ratisbon. The flag had a bird-like figure on it, so when it fluttered in the air, it looked like a bird flapping its wings. The soldier wanted Napoleon to see this symbol of victory, which he himself had placed, making his contribution even more personal and significant. This act was the fulfillment of his deepest wish.
In simple words: These lines from Robert Browning's poem show the soldier's pride. He wanted Napoleon to see the French flag, which looked like a bird flapping its wings, flying high over Ratisbon because the soldier had put it there himself.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the use of imagery (e.g., "flag-bird"). Explain how the imagery enhances the soldier's pride and the significance of his action.

5. Answer the following questions in about 100-150 words each:

Question a. The young soldier matched his emperor in courage and patriotism. Elucidate your answer.
Question b. What is the role of the young soldier in the victory of the French at Ratisbon?
Answer: In "Incident of the French Camp", the poem describes a young boy serving in Napoleon's army during the capture of Ratisbon. Napoleon, standing on a small mound, waited anxiously for news. A badly wounded young boy then rode to him, jumped off his horse, and reported that the French had taken the city, before falling dead at Napoleon's feet. The boy's actions were truly heroic for many reasons. He was only a boy yet served in the dangerous battle. Even though he was fatally wounded, he rode back at top speed to report the victory, showing incredible courage and devotion. He did not ask for help or show his wounds, instead focusing on his duty. He proudly raised the French flag in the captured city and died smiling, feeling he had served his emperor and nation heroically. This willingness to sacrifice everything, even hiding his fatal wound to deliver the news, demonstrates a level of courage and patriotism that mirrors, and even rivals, that of Napoleon himself. This boy's unwavering spirit is a testament to the powerful loyalty and dedication of the soldiers in Napoleon's army. He embodies the spirit of selflessness in service to his country.
In simple words: The young soldier showed great courage and love for his country. Even though he was badly hurt, he rode fast to tell Napoleon they won. He died smiling, showing he was proud to sacrifice his life, just like a true hero.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing a character's role and traits, provide specific examples from the text (like riding while wounded, hiding pain, and dying smiling) to support your points on courage and patriotism.

Question c. Napoleon was a great source of inspiration for his army. Justify.
Answer: The poem "Incident of the French Camp" by Robert Browning tells a real incident from the 1809 war between France and Austria, led by Napoleon. The poet clearly shows that Napoleon greatly inspired his army through various events. During the attack on Ratisbon, Napoleon defended it with strong determination. He stood on a mound near the battlefield, eagerly waiting for the battle's outcome. His posture, with his neck out-thrust, legs wide, and arms locked behind, showed he stood majestically, hiding any worry. This unwavering confidence inspired his army. A young soldier, deeply moved by Napoleon's leadership, fought bravely in a dangerous battle. Even when mortally wounded, he rode back at full speed to report the victory. Upon hearing the news, Napoleon's eyes flashed, and his plans soared. He then showed deep care for the wounded soldier, much like a mother eagle. This combination of being a powerful leader, caring person, and brave commander made him a huge source of inspiration for his army and people. His ability to inspire such loyalty and sacrifice demonstrates his exceptional leadership qualities.
In simple words: Napoleon inspired his army a lot. He stood strong in battle, showing no fear, and even cared for his wounded soldiers like a mother eagle. This made his army very loyal and brave, making them want to fight and die for their country and him.

🎯 Exam Tip: To justify a claim about a character's influence, describe their actions, their demeanor, and the impact these had on others, citing textual evidence.

Question 5. Answer the following questions in about 100-150 words each:
(a) The young soldier matched his emperor in courage and patriotism. Elucidate your answer.
(b) What is the role of the young soldier in the victory of the French at Ratisbon?
(c) Napoleon was a great source of inspiration to his army. Justify.

Answer: The poem "Incident of the French Camp" by Robert Browning tells about a real event in the 1809 war between France and Austria, led by Napoleon. The poet shows how Napoleon inspired his army through various events. During the attack on Ratisbon, Napoleon stood on a small hill near the battlefield, very keen to know the war's outcome. He stood tall with his neck pushed out and arms locked behind his back, showing no worry. This showed his majestic presence. The young soldier was a great source of inspiration, working for his country even though he was not officially in the army.

The young soldier participated in a dangerous battle, even as a boy. Despite being badly wounded, he rode quickly back to the emperor to report their victory. Even with terrible injuries, he showed great energy and did not ask for help. He proudly raised the French flag in the captured city. He felt proud of his deadly wounds and died smiling, showing no regret. He felt he had served his emperor and country well, dying heroically with a smile. This dedication to duty, even in the face of death, highlights the powerful bond between a leader and his devoted soldiers.

Napoleon's eyes lit up when he heard the news of victory, and his plans soared. But then he saw the severely wounded soldier, and his eyes softened like a caring mother eagle's. He asked if the soldier was hurt. This caring side of Napoleon also inspired others. His actions showed him to be a perfect king, a loving and brave leader. All these qualities made him a great source of inspiration for his army and his people.

In simple words: The poem tells how a brave young soldier, despite being badly hurt, brought news of victory to Napoleon and died smiling. Napoleon, a great leader, inspired such courage and showed care for his soldiers. The soldier's actions proved his loyalty and love for his country.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked to elaborate on multiple points, structure your answer with clear paragraphs for each theme (e.g., soldier's courage, his role, Napoleon's inspiration) to ensure all parts of the question are addressed comprehensively.

Listening

Question 1. The Drum – John Scott (1731-83)
I hate that drum's _______ sound.
Parading round, and round, and round:
To thoughtless _______ it pleasure yields,
And lures from cities and from fields,
sell their _______ for charms
Of tawdry lace, and glittering arms;
And when _______ voice commands,
To march, and fight, and fall,
in _______.
I hate that drum's discordant sound, parading round, and round, and round; To me, it talks of _______ plains, And burning towns and ruin'd swains, And all that Misery's hand bestows, To fill the _______ of human woes.

Answer:
I hate that drum's discordant sound,
Parading round, and round, and round:
To thoughtless youth it pleasure yields,
And lures from cities and from fields,
sell their liberty for charms
Of tawdry lace and glittering arms;
And when Ambition's voice commands,
To march, and fight, and fall,
in foreign lands.
I hate that drum's discordant sound, Parading round, and round, and round; To me it talks of ravag'd plains, And burning towns, and ruin'd swains, And all that Misery's hand bestows, To fill the catalogue of human woes.

In simple words: This poem shows a strong dislike for war and the drum that calls people to fight. It suggests that war brings only misery and destruction, taking away people's freedom and destroying lands, rather than bringing any true joy.

🎯 Exam Tip: For fill-in-the-blanks based on a poem, read the entire poem carefully to understand the context and flow, which helps in choosing the most appropriate word for each blank.

கவிஞரைப் பற்றி:

இராபர்ட் ப்ரௌனிங் (Robert Browning), born on May 7, 1812, and passed away on December 12, 1889, was a leading Victorian poet and playwright from England. He was born in Camberwell, a small village in London. He was mostly educated at home and studied Greek at London University.

His poems are known for irony, strong characters, dark humor, social commentary, historical settings, and unique word choices and sentence structures. He created his own distinctive conversational style in poetry. His collections like "Dramatis Personae" and long poems such as "The Ring and the Book" made him a celebrated British Poet. He was honored for his contributions to English literature, and the Browning Literary Society was established in 1881.

கவிதையைப் பற்றி:

From ancient India to the computer age, chess has been used to teach tactics and strategies. This game, which started in India in the 6th century as a 64-square board game, was like a model for the army back then, called Chaturanga. Before we look at the poem, let's understand the interesting background of this incident at the French camp.

Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821) started as an officer in this camp, rose to become an army general, and became famous as a great warrior due to his fighting skills and intelligence. This poem describes a true event that happened at the French camp in 1809. This war took place between countries like France and Austria, led by Napoleon. Napoleon is standing on a hill, looking towards Ratisbon.

At that time, many thoughts weighed on his mind. He wondered if his plans would be ruined if Lannes failed to defeat Ratisbon. This poem tells us about the courage, bravery, patriotism, and sacrifice of a French soldier.

Incident Of The French Camp Summary In Tamil

We, the French soldiers, attacked Ratisbon.
Napoleon stood on a small mound about a mile away, on the day of the attack. You can imagine his posture: neck pushed out, legs wide, and arms locked behind him. He looked like he was trying to balance his heavy brow, full of oppressive thoughts.

He was thinking intensely. His plans soared, but also could fall to the ground at any moment. As soon as his commander Lannes planted the flag on the wall, and the chemical containers opened and smoked, a brave soldier came galloping quickly. He came at full speed, without even pulling the bridle until he reached the mound.

Then, from a distance, a joyful smile and an erect posture appeared. With only a glance at his horse, the young boy approached. It was hard to believe (one would suspect) that blood was oozing from his mouth. He had tightly pressed his lips to prevent it from flowing out. You looked twice at his chest before you saw it. But two arrows had pierced him.

He shouted, "Emperor! By God's grace, we have brought you Ratisbon! Marshall is in the market area, and you will be there soon. To see your flag-bird flap its wings, I wished it myself." He said he had planted the French flag there. The commander's eyes flashed, and his plans rose like wildfire. The commander's eyes flashed again, but then, like a mother eagle whose eyes dim upon seeing her injured eaglet, his eyes softened.

To "You're wounded!" "No," the soldier replied, his pride instantly touched. He said, "I am killed, Sire!" and then fell dead, smiling, beside the commander.