I saw them quite frequently, though I have no recollection of having had any conversation whatever with them on the subject of their mission.

It was something I had nothing to do with, and I therefore did not wish to express any views on the subject.

For my own part I never had admitted, and never was ready to admit, that they were the representatives of a GOVERNMENT.

There had been too great a waste of blood and treasure to concede anything of the kind.

As long as they remained there, however, our relations were pleasant and I found them all very agreeable gentlemen.