O'Brien had not forgotten to provide us with two large brown-coloured blankets, which we strapped on to our shoulders, as the soldiers do their coats.
"But what are we to pass for now, O'Brien ?" "Peter, I will settle that point before night.

My wits are working, but I like to trust to chance for a stray idea or so; we must walk fast, or we shall be smothered with the snow." It was bitter cold weather, and the snow had fallen heavily during the whole day; but although nearly dusk, there was a bright moon ready for us.

We walked very fast, and soon observed persons ahead of us.

"Let us overtake them, we may obtain some information." As we came up with them, one of them (they were both lads of seventeen to eighteen) said to O'Brien, "I thought we were the last, but I was mistaken.

How far is it now to St Nicholas ?" "How should I know ?" replied O'Brien, "I am a stranger in these parts as well as yourself." "From what part of France do you come ?" demanded the other, his teeth chattering with the cold, for he was badly clothed, and with little defence from the inclement weather.
"From Montpelier," replied O'Brien.
"And I from Toulouse.