At Vernon, his sickly condition did not permit him, when a child, to go and dabble in the Seine.

Whilst his schoolfellows ran and threw themselves into the river, he lay abed between a couple of warm blankets.

Laurent had become an intrepid swimmer, and an indefatigable oarsman.

Camille had preserved that terror for deep water which is inherent in women and children.

He tapped the end of the boat with his foot to make sure of its solidity.
"Come, get in," cried Laurent with a laugh, "you're always trembling." Camille stepped over the side, and went staggering to seat himself at the stern.