Page:Narrative of a captivity and adventures in France and Flanders between the years 1803 and 1809.djvu/214

 however, listened with intense interest to the recital of our adventures; when I seized the opportunity of appealing to his common sense, whether it was probable that officers, who had acted as we had done, throughout, could be so base, so inconsistent, as finally to tarnish British integrity, by refusing to fulfil the very engagement which had restored them to their country. Nevertheless, if it was more satisfactory to him, I added, I was willing that he should keep me as an hostage, and convey the other two to England; and when the money was paid, should procure me the means of following them. To this he objected, from the danger of concealing me in his house. I then proposed his placing me somewhere in the country, but he shrugged up his shoulders in reply, and paused, in seeming doubt. I asked if he would have any objection to go to Verdun with bills which I would give him, he might there inquire who we were, get some of them cashed, and be insured payment for the remainder. At this, his countenance appeared to brighten, he con