"Wait a moment," said one of the members, "the heart of the carnation has been removed. The calyx is empty, it is true, but in this calyx most unquestionably a letter has been concealed."
"I am quite ready and willing," said Maurice, "to furnish all necessary explanation; but first of all, I request to be arrested."
"We shall make a minute of your proposal, but shall not act upon it," said the president. "You are known as a stanch patriot, Citizen Lindey."
"And I will answer with my life for the friends I had the imprudence to bring with me."
"Answer for no one," replied the procurator.
A tremendous hubbub was now heard in the court. It was Simon, who having long and vainly sought for the little billet wafted away by the wind, went to Santerre and informed him that an attempt had been made to carry off the queen, with all the accessories which the powers of his excited imagination could lend to such an event. Santerre was in great haste; he investigated the Temple, and changed the guard, to the great disgust of Lorin, who stoutly protested against this offence offered to his battalion.
"Ah! vile cobbler," said he to Simon, menacing him with his sabre, "I have you to thank for this pleasantry; but only wait a little, and I will pay you back in your own coin."
"I think rather that the entire nation will pay you," said the shoemaker, rubbing his hands.
"Citizen Maurice," said Santerre, "hold yourself at the disposal of the Commune, who will examine you."