This Paul insisted that the
matron should drink first and on its being replenished he more
emphatically insisted that the farmer should drink before him. While
the farmer was drinking, Paul generally secured the bottle as if to
relieve him from its charge while drinking. The moment he secured it he
gave a wild whoop and placing it to his lips took a seemingly long
swig, after which he executed a fantastic war dance around the kitchen
to the alarm of the farmer and his worthy family who were only to
glad to see him disappear through the door, Vodry remaining to
remonstrate with them in regard to their folly in having given fire-
water to this untutored child of the forest. He assured them that if he
could procure the liquor he would return it, and then shouldering
his bag of potatoes expressed the most profound sorrow at the
occurrence. He would not proceed far until he was waylaid by Paul who
was concealed in some hedge or dyke and the two conspirators resumed
their way to the camp. That evening Paul's mess enjoyed the much
cherished coffee and cognac so dear to every French heart.
The Gardes Mobiles, a large number of which were in this part of France,
were regiments formed of clerks, lawyers, merchants and other
citizens, many of whom volunteered and were formed into an army to
assist the regulars and Franc-tireurs in repelling the invasion.
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