To the soldier he shouted, as if to explain and justify himself: "Never mind that I have stopped.

It's a good thing, my friend,--but not for those who are to be hanged.

But it's very good for all others." And, indeed, he began to feel somewhat better.

He tried also to eat less, so as to grow still weaker, but notwithstanding the lack of pure air and exercises, his appetite was very good,--it was difficult for him to control it, and he ate everything that was brought to him.

Then he began to manage differently--before starting to eat he would pour out half into the pail, and this seemed to work.