his description, and that I wished to know by what authority he could presume to interrogate any stranger in so unhandsome a manner – The scoundrel smiled. I then observed to the landlord, that the inclemency of the morning was what had occasioned my stopping at his house, particularly as I had seen neither village nor public house contiguous; but as there were no hopes of the weather becoming fair, I should continue my road to Strasbourg, which was twelve leagues off, and Bitche I was given to understand, was only three leagues; which mortified me greatly, to find what little progress I had made in so many days. But to return, – They sat down, tailor and family, to breakfast, without asking the unfortunate stranger to partake. So he of course took his leave, and pursued his solitary journey.”
After wandering for nine days through woods and marshes, over mountains, &c. during which period he met with many extraordinary adventures, and had some almost miraculous escapes, Mr. O’Brien succeeded in crossing the Rhine at Khel; from whence he travelled, with feet dreadfully blistered and legs much swollen, through Baden, Suabia, and Wirtemberg. He was also fortunate enough to obtain a conveyance over part of the lake of Constance; and had nearly reached Lindau, a town then forming part of the Bavarian territory, before he was again arrested. This event happened on the 2d December, 1807. He thus describes his subsequent treatment:
“They proceeded to search me, took away the whole of my clothes, and the few pieces of silver they found on me, my knife, razor, &c. observing that I should have them returned in due time. I prevailed on them to leave my pantaloons; and as only the collar and sleeves of my shirt remained, I did not fear being deprived of the comfort of reserving it. They then locked me up and retired. I found myself excessively cold during the night: a severe frost had set in; and I could not expect it otherwise. * * * *
“On the thirteenth morning, at day-break, the jailor appeared with breakfast and my clothes; and informed me, I was instantly to prepare for my journey back into France; that my escort would be at the door in a few minutes. I had scarcely swallowed my breakfast, when two military men were shewn in; the foremost carrying an immense iron chain, with shackles, and a large padlock. This man spoke a little French – saluted me civilly, and asked if I were prepared? ‘Yes,’ said I, ‘perfectly so.’ ‘I am sorry’ resumed he, ‘to be under the necessity of using these machines – it is the commandant’s orders, and, as you are an officer yourself, I need