ddle of the night, and, knowing nothing of the
place, might have great difficulty in finding lodgings. If I stayed,
I might get a train back or a carriage, or even find here a hotel of
some kind where they would accommodate me until morning. I decided
to remain, and off went the cars.

"One of the ticket-agents came forward from the office--as I
supposed to offer his services: there were but few people about, but
all understood my situation. As I said, the man came forward and
bowed: 'Your fare, if you please.'

"I handed him my ticket: he stood before me and repeated, 'Your
fare, if you please.'

"'I have given you my ticket,' said I, looking at him inquiringly.

"'This one is not for Liancourt: it is for Creil.'

"'I was going to Creil, only the train brought me past.'

"'Exactly, and you will please pay for the extra distance,' said he
politely.

"It was too much. I had the misfortune of being carried out of my
way, and this exasperating clerk was coolly asking me to pay the
company a premium for the result of the conductor's carelessness. It
was one of those situations in which words fail to express the
extent of your indignation. The fellow's audacity verged on the
sublime. He stood there with the calmness of a hero. And what did I
do? Why, I paid him. But I tell you truly that I have hated that
whole railroad company with the blackest hatred ever since. That was
not all. As soon as he received the provoking money--I wish it had
been red hot--he turned on his heel and walked into his office.

"But it was not the time to indulge in resentment: I must act
promptly. The people there when I arrived were fast dispersing. I
addressed myself to a half-grown boy who was standing near me: 'When
does the next train go to Paris?' I thought I had better return and
start afresh in the morning.

"'The last has gone for to-night,' answered the lad.

"'Are you quite sure?'

"He gave his head a decisive jerk.

"'How far is this place from Creil?'

"'About five miles.'

"'Can I get a carriage to take me there?'

"'No.' This time he looked for corroboration to the group who had
gathered round us, all of whom with one accord wagged their heads in
the negative.

"'Is there a hotel here?'

"'No.'

"'Isn't it a town?'

"'No,' much intensified.