Page:Narrative of a captivity and adventures in France and Flanders between the years 1803 and 1809.djvu/220

 *ter, in order the better to digest my plans; but they were averse to it, from friendship to me, and, from the consideration of the numerous obstacles, I should have to overcome. There was no doubt, truth and prudence in their observations; nevertheless, I resolved not to give it up; accordingly, I again mentioned it to Neirinks, who, doubting how to act, yet desirous of gaining our confidence, now consented to assist me with the loan of his pocket book, together with certificates and passport; provided, that in the event of my being taken, I declared I had found them in a certain road. This, however, was not all that was necessary, for money and clothes were wanting; at length, so many difficulties arose, that I feared success was impossible, still, as the plan I had laid down, though fraught with danger, afforded a chance, I felt that my friend was entitled to it; knowing, that if he were similarly situated, he would not hesitate a moment in risking his liberty, and even his life, to rescue me. Indeed, so much was my mind occupied by these