drew a paper from his pocket.

"What is that?" asked Roland.

"My passport."

"What have I to do with your passport?" asked Roland, "I am not
a gendarme."

"No, but I have come to offer you my services. Perhaps you will
not accept them if you do not know who I am."

"Your services, sir?"

"Yes; but read that first."

Roland read:

In the name of the French Republic--The Executive Directory hereby
orders that Sir John Tanlay, Esq., be permitted to travel freely
throughout the territory of the Republic, and that both assistance
and protection be accorded him in case of need.
(Signed) FOUCHE.

And below:

To whom it may concern--I recommend Sir John Tanlay particularly
as a philanthropist and a friend of liberty.
(Signed) BARRAS.