The first thing we require is patience.

No doubt they will allow me out to take exercise, and like enough, if I give my word that you will return every day at a certain hour, they will allow you to go in to the town, seeing that you can scarcely be called a prisoner, having no military rank or position, but being in their eyes only a lackey.

If they will do that it will be a great step gained, for you will be able to bring in anything that we may require.

However, I will not ask that you should be permitted to go in and out for some little time.
"Lose no opportunity of making yourself friendly with some of the soldiers, and if the chance should occur, be useful to any of the officers.

The commandant is evidently disposed to be civil, and says that he will grant me any indulgence in his power short of passing the gates of the castle.