Six o'clock
There was light laughter occasionally , but in general the men were silent , going forward with rapid strides , or standing stock still when brought to an abrupt halt whenever the head of the column struck an obstacle . I slept by snatches , awaking every time in a jump . Everybody was nervous ; even the officers could not hide their irritation . * * * * * Six o'clock came . The road was clear ; the sun was nearly two hours high . Forward we went at a swinging gait down the road through the dust . In ten minutes the sweat was rolling .