"But I know a person who boasts that he did so," said Fouquier.
"I know ten," replied the Citizen Théodore, courageously; "but, indeed, as they all make some claim for having done so, and I ask nothing, at least I ought to have the preference, I hope."
This reply excited Simon's laughter, and dispersed the cloud on the accuser's brow.
"Right," said he; "and if you did not do it, you ought to have done so. But leave us now; Simon has some business to transact with me."
Théodore retired, very little hurt by the frankness of the public accuser.
"One moment," cried Simon. "Do not send him away so; let us first hear his denunciation."
"Ah!" said Fouquier Tinville, with an absent air, "a denunciation?"
"Yes; a covey of conspirators," replied Simon.
"All in good time. Speak; what is the matter now?"
"Oh! not much; only the Chevalier de Maison-Rouge and some of his friends."