One day Sylvestre was summoned before the officer of his company; andthey told him he was among those ordered out to China--in the squadronfor Formosa. He had been pretty well expecting it for some time, as hehad heard those who read the papers say that out there the war seemednever-ending.

　　And because of the urgency of the departure, he was informed at thesame time that he would not be able to have the customary leave forhis home farewells; in five days' time he would have to pack up and beoff.

　　Then a bitter pain came over him; though charmed at the idea of far-o............