preme honor of sleeping under his roof, the Franc-tireurs
would make their adieux. As the door closed they kicked each other for
joy because they had obtained what they appreciated more than a nice
soft bed. They could sleep as soundly in any of the parks or on the lee
side of hogsheads, or on bales of cotton on the quay, after they had
enjoyed spending the proceeds of the "billet de logement." The army was
now quickly disbanded and Paul found himself once more a citizen. He
still retained his uniform, for without it he would have been devoid of
clothing.

At this time the Communes were causing the government great trouble in
Paris and regiment after regiment was being hurried thither. 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. Prussians!"

The room was quickly invaded by a Corporal and one of his friends with
drawn sabres in their hands. Paul and his companion, who saw that they
were about to be attacked, grabbed chairs and backed into a corner,
where they defended themselves against the onslaught. Paul asked them
in his best French what they meant and assured them that they were not
Prussians but American volunteers. On receiving this inf