The square in front of the prison was deserted, and the sentinel crouched close against the door, which partially protected him from the weather.

In a few minutes a person was heard in conversation with the sentinel.

"He must be coming now," observed Collins in a low tone; "that must be one of his assistants who is taking off the attention of the _gens d'arme_." "Make no noise," said a voice in a whisper, at the outside of the bars.
"I am here," replied Collins, softly.
"How can you get out of the prison ?" "Get the sentry out of the way when we leave off singing; the bars will then be removed." "Everything is prepared outside.

When you get out, keep close under the wall to the right.

I shall be at the corner, if I am not here." The freemason then retired from the grating.
"Now, Thompson, not too loud, there's no occasion for it; two of us can work." Thompson commenced his song; Newton took a small saw from Collins, who directed him how to use it.