Page:Narrative of a captivity and adventures in France and Flanders between the years 1803 and 1809.djvu/93

 over the canal, and passing through the ravelin; but being unacquainted with those parts of the fortification, we intended to risk all, and trust to Providence for deliverance. This plan, however, did not bear the stamp of prudence, but what could we do better? it was, in fact, our only resource. We discussed the subject, with the utmost deliberation, and were convinced, that over the north gate, was the only point practicable, although a sentry-box stood within ten paces of it. These difficulties, however, did not alter our determination, but only excited additional energy; we persuaded ourselves, that the very precautions taken, would ultimately facilitate our elopement, for the gendarmes, judging, from the number of night sentinels, that we should deem it impossible, would, in the course of time, be so lulled into security, as to relax, and become more careless than if they were less numerous. By the friendly aid of a "déténu," residing in the town, we procured provisions, and a map of the northern department, and several other necessaries, almost indispen