The mayor informed them that arrangements had been made to transport them there at the expense of the French Government.

He also said that he was authorized to give each volunteer the sum of twenty-five francs, a mattress, blanket and a supply of tin-ware.

This joyful news was received with loud cries of "Vive la France! Vive la Republique!" and three hearty cheers were given for the mayor.

As the volunteers joyously dispersed, an officer informed Paul that the mayor wished to see him in his private office.
When he entered, His Honor informed him that he desired him to take charge of the men on their passage over.
"I know they are a pretty wild lot, and no doubt will not obey orders, still I will depend upon you to do your utmost to keep them quiet, and not have them disgrace the uniform they wear." He then gave Paul a strong letter of recommendation commending him for his courage and service to France, also presenting him with the arms he bore in the service.

To this day Paul retains his chassepot as a memento of the happy, careless days he passed, while serving under the Tricolor of France.
Two days after, all the foreign volunteers were mustered to embark on the steamer Stromboli, the authorities taking the precaution not to give them the promised twenty-five francs until they had passed up the gang- plank.