No Relations, Ed. [And Tr., from Sans Famille] by the Author of 'Hogan, M.P.' [Assisted by J.E.C. Bodley]. (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1880. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER VI. SAVED. 'UK position in our cramped shelter had become unbearable. It was decided that the roof must be enlarged, and each of us set himself to work scooping out the coal with our knives, and rolling down the loose stuff. As we had now;a somewhat solid support for our feet, the work was easier, and we succeeded in breaking down the coal sufficiently to enlarge our prison. It was a great relief to be able to stretch ourselves to our full length, without having to remain in a sitting posture with our legs swinging. Although Carrory's piece of bread had been but sparingly measured out to us, we had seen the last of it. As to that, indeed, the last bit had been divided between us in the nick of time to reach us. For it was easy to see by the looks of the miners, while the magister was giving it to us, that they would not allow another division without asking for, and, if it were not given to them, without taking their share. Silence grew upon us, so to speak, by degrees; and j ust as at the beginning of our captivity we had been talkative, so, as it went on, we became proportionably silent. Our conversations turned continually upon two subjects alone, and upon the same two questions--'What means would they employ to get to us?' and 'How long would we be imprisoned V But the conversations lasted only for a few moments. If one of us ventured on an observation, that observation was often not replied to; or if it was, it was simply by some brief words. Anyone might ring the changes, from night to day, or from black to white, without exciting anger, or even the simple remark, 'Good we will see.' Vol. Ii. 40 Had we been buried for two days, or for six? When the moment of deliverance comes we shall see. But would this moment ever come? I myself began str...