Now I am French by many a generation, Gascon by birth, and bearing commission in the Guard of the Emperor; yet sooth, 't is the single accursed drop of Irish blood within my veins that brings me across the great seas and maroons me in this howling wilderness.

But sit down, Monsieur.

There will be both food and wine served presently, and I would speak with you more at ease." As he spoke he flung himself upon a low settee, carelessly motioning me toward another.
"On my word," he said, eying me closely as I crossed over to the bench, "but you are a big fellow for your years, and 't is strength, not flabby flesh, or I know not how to judge.

You would make a fine figure of a soldier, John Wayland.

Napoleon perchance might offer you a marshal's baton, just to see you in the uniform.