I only hoped, if it came to that, I might be in the first batch.
This time I was placed in a different cell from that I had occupied the night before.

It was above ground, and lit by a larger window.

Indeed, it was not intended to be used as a cell at all; but, as my jailer explained in a jocular way, he had so many guests that day that he was obliged to accommodate some of them in the soldiers' quarters, and begged monsieur (that was I) would accept his excuses for not having made more elaborate preparations for his reception.

In half-an-hour or so, he said, there would be more room.

If monsieur could kindly wait till then, he should have an apartment suited to his dignity.
"Monsieur is too good," said I in the politest French I could muster, thinking it wise to humour him; "but I should take it as a favour to be allowed to give up my apartment." "By no means," said the other, slapping me on the back; "we cannot spare your company a moment before the time .-- Meanwhile, make yourself at home, and receive the assurance of my profound esteem." "There is one favour I would beg, if I might be so bold," said I.