" The gay Frenchman laughed
at his unique excuse and relieved him; but it was a close call for Paul.
Before the armistice was ended, the news of the peace declared arrived
in camp and soon after orders were given to march for Havre.
The discipline of the regulars was never enjoyed by Paul, neither was
their commissary department. Horse flesh was served out three times a
week. On other days they received pork and beef. Coffee, sugar, rice,
bread and wine were served every second day. The two day's rations of
wine never lasted over fifteen seconds. The trade in tobacco is
monopolized by the French Government. Who ever bore an order
from his commanding officer could receive a certain amount by simply
paying for the tax stamp. On railroad trains the regulars could ride for
one third and gain admission to theatres and amusement halls at about
the same rate, so that the munificent salary they received of six cents
per day enabled them to enjoy themselves in a very limited manner.
Every barracks and military building in Havre was overflowing with
soldiers; and when Paul's company arrived they could find no place to
sleep. So they received a document entitled a "billet de logement" that
entitled them to a bed in the house on which it was drawn.
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