we shall, that it is impossible for us to escape from the citadel
and town at the same attempt."

The place was indeed so strong that but a careless watch was kept
over the prisoners in the castle. The soldiers were confined to
their quarters save that they were allowed for an hour a day to
take exercise in the courtyard, a company of troops being kept
under arms while they were out; but the officers were free at all
times to wander about. Hector was soon on friendly terms with many
of the officers of the garrison, as in his case there was none of
the hostile feeling with which the French officers were regarded.
His youth, and the singularity of his having so soon attained
the rank of colonel, also predisposed them in his favour. It was
evident that this young soldier of fortune, unsupported by powerful
family interest, must have distinguished himself in an altogether
exceptional manner to have obtained the command of one of the best
regiments of France.

Paolo was as popular among the sergeants and men as his master was
with the officers. As an Italian, and as Hector's lackey, he was
not regarded as a prisoner of war; and by his unfailing good humour,
his readiness to enter into any fun that might be going on, or to
lend a hand in cleaning accoutrements or completing a job that a
soldier had left unfinished when his turn came for duty, he became
quite a popular character. The colonel who commanded frequently
walked with Hector in the courtyard, sent him dishes from his own
table, and more than once invited him to dine with him. As he was
very curious to learn how his young prisoner had so early attained
his rank, Hector one evening gave him a sketch of his career, from
the time when Turenne gave him his commission to that at which he