Reaching the side entrance of the Conciergerie, he gave three knocks, and a grating was opened in the door.
"It is I—Citoyen Robespierre."
The gate swung back on its hinges, and a voice was heard exclaiming—
"Salut et fraternité, citoyen!"
It was Collas, the turnkey, on duty.
"I want Citoyen Fouquier-Tinville."
"He has not returned, citoyen."
Robespierre betrayed impatience.
"Can I do anything for you, citoyen?" said Collas.
"I wish to know if you have among your prisoners a certain Germain, lately at La Force prison."