There had just been a meeting of officers, who had decided that, whether with or without the colonel's participation, they would range themselves on the side of the Provisional Government. The colonel returned in half an hour's time.
"Messieurs," he said, "you must give me your word of honour to leave la Fère instantly, and then you shall be free."
"I will give you nothing of the kind," said Charras.
"You will not!"
"No."
"You will, at any rate, engage not to cause any disturbance in my regiment?"
"I will not.... I like your suggestions, indeed! We come in the name of the constituted Government, and it is we who possess authority, you who are rebels; we could do you a bad turn for having us arrested, and you ask us for our word of honour to quit la Fère, and not to try to influence your regiment.... Come now! Either shoot us or let us go free!"
"Well, then," said the colonel, "go to the devil with you!" and he held out his hand to them, laughing.
They both pressed his hand and went out, accompanied by Lieutenant-Colonel Duriveau, who, according to his promise, kept as close to them as a shadow.