The Camden confederate. [volume] (Camden, S.C.) 1861-1865, 1863-11-27
J. T. HERSHMAN, Editor.
The FrcmcI, Spy System.

The Frcnch spy system,
Among the many families which rose into
notice under the empire of the first Napoleon
few held more distinguished position in tho
Partisan society of The day than that of the
Countess B. Her house, at the period of
which we speak, was the rendezvous of all the
celebrities of the timc-marshas of France
statesmen, artists, men of letters, alike crowded
to her saloons. The Baron NJ was ono
of her most frequent guests, and had the rep,
utation of being AS witty and amusing per-
sonagc as could he met with; in consequence,
his company was very generally sought, even
by the highest circles, in which, though but
Aitte was known of his family or connection, he
had found means to obtain an excellent foot
nG.
One evening in the winter of 1905, bril-
liant party was assembled ill the gay saloon 5
of the Countess of b, when a gentle.
man well known to all arrived in breathcSs
haste, and apparently much excited. He made
his way as quickly as possible to the Countess
and all crowded around to hear what great
piece of intelligence he had to communicate.
I'VE are all, Think he said, swell acquain-
ted with Baron Nj, who is so constant
visitor here. l regret TO say that have
lust learned, in the most positive manner, that
hc is undoubtedly a spy; he has, in fact, been
seen to enter and leave the cabinet of Monsieur
Fouchc"
the assembled guests were thundcrstruck at
the unexpected announcement, each one cn-
dcavoring to rccolect what indscrrct express.
sion might have passed ts lips in the presence
of the trcachcrous Baron, and all naturally
enough, feeling extremely uneasy at the posi-
bility of being called upon 70 answer for some
lony-forgottcn words spoken, as thought, in the
security Of private society. The hostess, of
course, was most indignant at the insult which
had been put upon her, and could hardly be-
licvc in the truth of the accusation.
However, something must be done; the Ba-
ron was momentariIy expected; and unless he
were able to clear himself from this serious i'm
putation, he must be at once expelled from the
society After some discussion, therefore, it
was decided that, upon the arrival of Baron NJ
-, the Countess should request a few min
utes private conversation with him; that she
should take him into another room, and hav-
ing told him of what he was accused, should
ask if he had any explanation TO offer, as 9TH
erwse she should be obliged to signify to him
that he must discontinue hisvisits.~
rAIn the midst of the invcctivcs which were
poured forth on the head of the unfortunate
Baron, that worthy mado his appearance. I'm
mediatcly all was silent, and though he adj
yanccd to greet his friends with his customary
easy assurance, he evidently saw that all was
not right, as his most intimate associates Of
Yesterday avoided speaking to him, or, at
most, gave him the slightest possible saluta-
ton.
Not being, however, very easily abashed,
Baron NJ proceeded, as usual, to make his
bow to the hostess, who at once, as had been
agreed, said to him:
"Monisieur lie Baron, may l request the fa-
yor of few words with you in private q
"Ccrtainly, madame" replied the Baron, Of