Step 1: Understanding Maltose.
Maltose is a disaccharide consisting of two glucose molecules. The two glucose units are connected by an \( \alpha - 1, 4 \)-glycosidic bond.
Step 2: Analyzing the linkage.
In maltose, the glycosidic linkage between the two glucose units is \( \alpha - 1, 4 \). This is a key feature of maltose.
Thus, the correct answer is (D).