"'No—it is plain to see that by the cut and the material of your clothing. But is it true,' he continued rapidly, 'that the allied armies are about to cross the frontier?'
"'Alas! I fear so. But you do not know our last disaster, then?'
"'Fortune has betrayed us, but patience—patience!'
"'Do you think that further resistance is possible?' I asked.
"'I am a soldier of France!' was his proud reply. 'I believe in my banner and my country!' He then asked me many questions, and finally one that made my heart leap to my throat.
"'Is it true that the French emigrés have accepted positions in these foreign armies?' I protested my ignorance. He passed his hand over his brow, as if to chase away unfortunate doubts, and I changed the conversation.
"'These lovely children are yours?' I asked.
"'Yes—and this is my wife, Françoise Simon, the best of women, who has consoled me in many sorrows, and this is Jacques, my eldest, and you know Francinette. Perhaps you will give me your name now?'
"'One moment—you have not introduced yourself.'
"'I am called Simon,' he answered with a frown.