Even in that limbo or no-man's-land where I was wandering, lights were made in the houses; sashes were flung up; I could hear neighbouring families converse from window to window, and at length I was challenged myself.
'Wha's that ?' cried a big voice.
I could see it proceeded from a big man in a big nightcap, leaning from a one-pair window; and as I was not yet abreast of his house, I judged it was more wise to answer.

This was not the first time I had had to stake my fortunes on the goodness of my accent in a foreign tongue; and I have always found the moment inspiriting, as a gambler should.

Pulling around me a sort of great-coat I had made of my blanket, to cover my sulphur-coloured livery,--'A friend!' said I.
'What like's all this collieshangie ?' said he.
I had never heard of a collieshangie in my days, but with the racket all about us in the city, I could have no doubt as to the man's meaning.
'I do not know, sir, really,' said I; 'but I suppose some of the prisoners will have escaped.' 'Bedamned!' says he.
'Oh, sir, they will be soon taken,' I replied: 'it has been found in time.

Good morning, sir!' 'Ye walk late, sir ?' he added.
'Oh, surely not,' said I, with a laugh.

'Earlyish, if you like!' which brought me finally beyond him, highly pleased with my success.
I was now come forth on a good thoroughfare, which led (as well as I could judge) in my direction.