As they came nearer the younger man staggered fearfully, and Jean knew that he was intoxicated. A feeling, half fear and half loathing, took possession of her as these two ill-visaged privates came nearer; but supposing they would pass, she kept her seat.
"Take-a-hic-your pipe-a-hic-out, in-a-hic-the presence of-a-hic-ladies," the man in the long cloak said.
The thick-set man took his pipe from his teeth and knocked the ashes out against the palm of his hand.
They were directly in front of Jean now.
The man in the long cloak made a tottering bow and addressed her.
"May a-hic we sit down?"
"Certainly," said Jean, the blood rushing to her face at their boldness, and she hurriedly started to her feet.
"Keep-a-hic-your seat and-a-hic-don't get agitated; we're-a-hic-gentle-mench."
The thick-set man had already seated himself, and the other man followed his example, forcing Jean to a place by his side.