Here, in a circle of Russians and Frenchmen who have collected round him, a young officer, who speaks French badly but sufficiently to be understood, is examining a Guardsman’s pouch.

“ Eh sussy, poor quah se waso lié? ” 53

“ Parce que c’est une giberne d’un régiment de la garde, Monsieur, qui porte l’aigle impérial. ” 54

“ Eh voo de la guard? ” 55