It is but little that I do , yet I give my life , and die a long death , instead of a quick , brave one with my comrades . '' `` You are young to have borne a part in a revolution , sir , '' said the major , who pricked up his ears like an old war-horse at the sound of battle . `` My friends and myself left the University at Varsovie , as volunteers ; we did our part , and now all lie in their graves but three . '' `` You were wounded , it seems ? '' `` Many times . Exposure , privation , and sorrow will finish what the Russian bullets began . But it is well . I have no wish to see my country enslaved , and I can no longer help her . '' `` Let us hope that a happier future waits for you both . Poland loves liberty too well , and has suffered too much for it , to be kept long in captivity . '' Helen spoke warmly , and the young man listened with a brightening face . `` It is a kind prophecy ; I accept it , and take courage . God knows I need it , '' he added , low to himself . `` Are you bound for Italy ? '' said the major , in a most un-English fit of curiosity . `` For Geneva first , Italy later , unless Montreaux is mild enough for me to winter in . I go to satisfy my friends , but doubt if it avails . '' `` Where is Montreaux ? '' asked Amy . `` Near Clarens , where Rousseau wrote his Heloise , and Vevay , where so many English go to enjoy Chillon .
The climate is divine for unfortunates like myself , and life more cheap there than in XXXXX . ''
Clarens Helen Italy Montreaux Rousseau Varsovie Vevay first left privation