Page:Narrative of a captivity and adventures in France and Flanders between the years 1803 and 1809.djvu/238

 other at about fifty paces distance, conducted by Neirinks. Our almost only danger now, was in escaping the observation of the guard, at the gates; but as, at this time, many people were passing and repassing, we mingled with the crowd, and, unnoticed, joined the guide, who was waiting in the vicinity. Our joy was now great indeed, almost equal to that experienced when we found ourselves in the ditch, after descending the last rampart at Valenciennes. It had been previously arranged, that Neirinks should accompany us to England, to receive the stipulated reward. Attended by him we marched in pairs, by woods and cross roads, towards the island of Cadsand, opposite to Flushing, till about one, A. M. expecting immediately to embark. On arriving near the coast, we met Peter's wife, who ordered us to lie down on the ground, whilst this Amazonian chief reconnoitred the strand. She had scarcely proceeded a hundred yards, when she was hailed, and saluted with a shot: like a skilful general, she in-instantly made good her retreat, and