"Show yourself, sir," said Launay, "not because the noise frightens me but to prove that I have acted fairly."
The farmer thrust his head out of the porthole, waving his hand.
At this sight the populace burst with cheering: it was in a measure Revolution standing up in Billet's stead as this man of the lowest ranks trod the Bastile turret like a master.
"That is well, sir," went on Launay. "Now all is ended between us; you have no further business here. They ask for you below; go down."
Billet appreciated this moderation on the part of a man who had him in his power: he went down by the same stairs, the governor following. The major remained up there as the governor had whispered some orders to him.
It was evident that Count Launay had but one wish, that the bearer of the flag of truce should be his active enemy as soon as possible.
Without speaking a word the envoy crossed the yard, where he saw the cannoniers were at their pieces and the lintstocks were lighted and smoking. He stopped before them.
"Friends," he cried, "remember that I came to your commander to stay the shedding of blood, but that he refused me."
"In the King's name, be off from here!" said Launay, stamping his foot.
"Have a care," retorted the farmer: "I am ordered out in the King's name but I shall return in that of the People. Speak out," he added, turning to the Swiss, "who are you for?"