Underground of Paris. 157 



we found but indifferently propped in some places with 

 wood much decayed. Under the houses and many of the 

 streets, however, it seemed to be tolerably secured by 

 immense stones set in mortar ; in other parts, where there 

 are only fields or gardens above, it was totally unsupported 

 for a considerable space, the roof being perfectly level, or a 

 plain piece of rock. 



' After traversing about two miles, we again descended 

 about twenty steps, and here found some workmen, in a 

 very cold and damp place, propping up a most dangerous 

 part, which they were fearful would give way every 

 moment. We were glad to give them money for some 

 drink, and make our visit at this place as short as 

 possible. The path here is not more than three feet in 

 width, and the roof so low that we were obliged to stoop 

 considerably. 



'By this time, several of the party began to repent 

 of their journey, and were much afraid of the damp and 

 cold air we frequently experienced. But, alas ! there was 

 no retreating. 



' On walking some little distance farther, we entered 

 into a kind of salon, cut out of the rock, and said to be 

 exactly under the Eglise de St. Jacques. This was illu- 

 minated with great taste, occasioned an agreeable surprise, 

 and made us all ample amends for the danger and diffi- 

 culty we had just before gone through. At one end was 

 a representation in miniature of some of the principal forts 

 in the Indies, with the fortifications, draw-bridges, &c. 

 Cannons were planted, with a couple of soldiers to each, 

 ready to fire. Sentinels were placed in different parts of 

 the garrison, particularly before the governor's house ; and 

 a regiment of armed men was drawn up in another place, 



