"Yes, monsieur, I have seen a man drink the ten pots of water with great facility, thanks to the oil which he had taken to put the canals in proper condition. To be sure, he swelled up, as they all do; but with a good fire they disinflated him without much damage. That is the essential thing in the second part of the operation. Be sure and remember these words: to heat without burning."
"I understand," said Canolles. "Mayhap monsieur was the executioner?"
"No, monsieur," replied his interlocutor, with courtesy seasoned with modesty.
"His assistant, perhaps?"
"No, monsieur; an onlooker, simply."
"Ah! and monsieur's name is—?"
"Barrabas."
"A fine name, an old name, too; made famous in the Scriptures."
"In the Passion, monsieur."