LE LONG DU SENTIER 



nearing four score. A friend, younger 

 by a dozen years, dropped in the day be- 

 fore the one fixed for departure, and 

 launched upon a discourse as to the dif- 

 ficulties and dangers of the voyage. 

 With cunning oratory he created an at- 

 mosphere before developing his theme. 



"Our old friend B is getting on 



in years, that we must admit, though 

 with the very greatest regret, but it is 

 not to be hinted that he should abandon 

 the trip, if he is willing to go, he must 

 not lose sa place. Consider, though, if 

 some mischance were to happen as he 

 returns alone, the roads, such as they 

 are, a broken bridge, or what you 

 please, he there, without the strength 

 to set it right the thought distresses 

 me, I cannot rest for thinking of it. 

 Now, as it happens, my own affairs are 

 not at the moment pressing. Permit me 

 then to accompany you and take the bag- 

 gage, that will serve for an excuse. 

 You do not misunderstand me, noth- 



260 



