"Oh! I have had those books in my hands many a time at Monsieur de Pontivy's, King's Councillor in Parliament, and that young man's grandfather."
Olivier turned deadly pale, and grasped convulsively at the back of a chair for support. His mother was lost! Exclamations of surprise and astonishment had greeted the Incorruptible's words. Then Robespierre knew his family, and all about him? And all eyes were fixed on the young man with renewed curiosity.
"Yes ... I know," ... answered Robespierre, forcing himself to appear calm, "I know ... who he is..."
"Oh, now we shall hear the whole story!" they all exclaimed, clapping their hands.
"Certainly you shall," Robespierre replied, "but in order to make sure I should like to be alone with him. We are too many here; I shall call you back presently. Let Héron and the police-agents wait in the courtyard."
Every one prepared to leave the room, looking rather disappointed, specially the women, who wondered what would be the outcome of it all.
As Lebas was passing out Robespierre stopped him.
"Don't go," he said, "I may want you."
And the three men remained alone.
The father was face to face with his son!