m back to the waiting-room without; besides,
I perceived that a kind of sensation was created among the others by his
appearance there, which amused me greatly.

"As the day wore on, the officers formed into little groups of three or
four, chatting together in an undertone,--all save the old pilot. He had
taken a huge tobacco-box from his capacious breast-pocket, and inserting
an immense piece of the bitter weed in his mouth, began to chew it
as leisurely as though he were walking the quarter-deck. The cool
_insouciance_ of such a proceeding amused me much, and I resolved to draw
him out a little. His strong, broad Breton features, his deep voice, his
dry, blunt manner, were all in admirable keeping with his exterior.

"'_Par Dieu_, my lad,' said he, after chatting some time, 'had you not
better tell the Emperor that I am waiting? It's now past noon, and I must
eat something.'

"'Have a little patience,' said I; 'his Majesty is going to invite you to
dinner.'

"'Be it so,' said he, gravely; 'provided the hour be an early one, I'm his
man.'

"With difficulty did I keep down my laughter as he said this, and
continued.

"'So you know the Emperor already, it seems?'

"'Yes, that I do! I remember him when he was no higher than yourself.'

"'How delighted he'll be to find you here! I hope you have brought up some
of your family with you, as the Emperor would be so flattered by it?'

"'No, I've left them at home. This place don't suit us over well. We have
plenty to do besides spending our time and money among all you fine folks
here.'

"'And not a bad life of it, either,' added I, 'fishing for cod and
herrings,--stripping a wreck now and then.'

"He stared at me, as I said this, like a tiger on the spring, but spoke not
a word.

"'And how many young sea-wolves may you have in your den at home?'

"'Six; and all of them able to carry you with one hand, at arm's length.'

"'I have no doubt. I shall certainly not test their ability. But you
yourself,--how do you like the capital?'

"'Not over well; and I'll tell you why--'

"As he said this the door of the audience-chamber opened, and the Emperor
appeared. His eyes flashed fire as he looked hurriedly around the room.

"'Who is in waiting here?'"

"'I am, please your Majesty,' said I, bowing deeply, as I started from my
seat.

"'And where is the Admiral Truguet? Why was he not admitted?'

"'Not present, your Majesty,' said I, trembling with fear.

"'Hold