The Thin Red Line is in two volumes, complete here. It takes place at the time of the Crimean War. ALSO INCLUDES THE STORY: BLUE BLOOD An excerpt: \"What\'s up, Hugo?\" The general was riding just in front of the Royal Picts, and his words were heard by many of the regiment. \"Just fancy! we were on the point of having a brush with the Cossacks, when Lord Raglan came up and spoiled the fun.\" \"Do you know why?\" \"Yes; I heard him talking to our general--I am galloping, you know, for Lord Cardigan, who was mad to be at them, I can tell you, but he wasn\'t allowed.\" \"They were far too strong for you; I could see that myself.\" \"That\'s what Lord Raglan said. As if any one of us was not good enough for twenty Russians! But he was particularly anxious, so I heard him say, not to be drawn into an action to-day.\"[99] \"No doubt he was right,\" replied old Wilders. \"Only it can\'t be put off much longer. Unless I am greatly mistaken, to-morrow we shall be at it hammer and tongs.\" \"I hope I shall be somewhere near!\" cried Hugo, gaily. \"But where are the Royal Picts? Oh! here! I want to give Anastasius good-day.\" He found his younger brother was carrying the regimental colours, and the two young fellows exchanged pleasant greetings. It was quite a little family party, for just behind, in the centre of the line, stood Sergeant-major McKay, the unacknowledged cousin. How many of these four Wilders would be alive next night? No doubt a battle was imminent. It was more than possible that there would be a night attack, so both armies bivouacked in order of battle, ready to stand up in their places and fight at the first alarm.