Page:The Rebellion in the Cevennes (Volume 1).djvu/204

Rh cruel ingenuity of the executioner. In these caves, Roland also concealed his provision of arms and ammunition, if he should have a superfluity of them, and also a supply of food and wine, likewise medicines, and that which was necessary for the care of the sick. Government had already offered a large reward for the discovery of this important place of refuge, but until now in vain, For only the most trustworthy among the rebels were acquainted with this district, who naturally would not betray it and they took care, that only those among the country-people, whose integrity could be depended upon, should be admitted. As Edmond went along the narrow way which lay on the right under a steep mountain, whilst on the left, at the distance of a few paces, yawned a giddy abyss; he was just reflecting how easily and safely this pass might be defended, when he suddenly heard a large figure with a hairy face and wild, savage expression, call out, requesting to speak