Perhaps some lips half-opened at this question, but closed again without uttering a single word; since those who felt inclined to lie were ashamed to do so, and those who would not lie were determined not to speak.
A silence of several minutes ensued, during which the assistants continued their mournful office.
"Citizens, we are ready," said old Sanson, in his deep and solemn voice. He was answered only by sobs and groans.
"Well!" said Lorin, "so be it!
No death is nobler, none more high,
Than for our native land to die.
Yes, to die for our native land; but decidedly I begin to think we do not die for her, but for the pleasure of those who witness our deaths. Faith! Maurice, I have adopted your opinion. I am disgusted with the Republic!"
"The call!" said a commissary, at the door.
Several gendarmes entered the hall, closing up the issues, thus placing themselves between life and the condemned, as if to prevent them from returning to it.
The death-roll was called.