With one of
these regiments Paul managed to reach the capital. Being left to his own
resources he was greatly bewildered. The nature of the stirring and
exciting scenes he little comprehended. One evening while passing along
the boulevard near the Madeleine, a soldier wearing the uniform of the
Foreign Legion peered into his face and eagerly inquired if he could
speak United States. Paul answered, "yes." The soldier seemed
delighted and said, "Have you got any money? I am from Baltimore," all
in the same breath. Paul told him that he had a few francs and that
he was perfectly willing to divide and invited him to take dinner.
"I will take dinner gladly with you," responded his new acquaintance,
"but we had better strike some cheaper quarters than our present
surroundings."
So the two turning off the boulevard, pursued their way along the narrow
streets until they struck something more in keeping with their
financial standing. Here they entered a modest looking cafe and ordered
a ragout. While seated at the table they continued their conversation
in English. The sour looking landlord after taking their order eyed them
suspiciously for a few moments, while trying to understand their
conversation. Rushing to the door of an adjoining room he loudly called:
"Corporal, come here.
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