I was very much alarmed, but I recollected to put the rope into the trunk, and take out the key, before I called for assistance.

He soon came to, and on being asked what was the matter, said that he was subject to fits from his infancy.

He looked earnestly at me, and I showed him the key, which was sufficient.
For some days O'Brien, who really was not very well, kept to his room.
During this time, he often examined the map given him by the gendarme.
One day he said to me, "Peter, can you swim ?" "No," replied I; "but never mind that." "But I must mind it, Peter; for observe, we shall have to cross the river Meuse, and boats are not always to be had.

You observe, that this fortress is washed by the river on one side: and as it is the strongest side, it is the least guarded--we must escape by it.

I can see my way clear enough till we get to the second rampart on the river, but when we drop into the river, if you cannot swim, I must contrive to hold you up, somehow or another." "Are you then determined to escape, O'Brien?
I cannot perceive how we are even to get up this wall, with four sentries staring us in the face." "Never do you mind that, Peter, mind your own business; and first tell me, do you intend to try your luck with me ?" "Yes," replied I, "most certainly; if you have sufficient confidence in me to take me as your companion." "To tell you the truth, Peter, I would not give a farthing to escape without you.