At all events, it can do no harm." "I feel too ill to talk, O'Brien; but I wish you had not said so." They then inquired O'Brien's name, which he told them; his rank in the service, and also, whether he was noble.
"I am an O'Brien," replied he; "and pray what's the meaning of the O before my name, if I'm not noble?
However, Mr Interpreter, you may add, that we have dropped our title because it's not convanient." The French officer burst out into a loud laugh, which surprised us very much.

The interpreter had great difficulty in explaining what O'Brien said; but as O'Brien told me afterwards, the answer was put down _doubtful_.
They all left the room except the officer, who then, to our astonishment, addressed us in good English.

"Gentlemen, I have obtained permission from the governor for you to remain in my house, until Mr Simple is recovered.

Mr O'Brien, it is necessary that I should receive your parole of honour that you will not attempt to escape.

Are you willing to give it ?" O'Brien was quite amazed; "Murder an' Irish," cried he; "so you speak English, colonel.