"But in pity go! I entreat you! Oh go! in pity, go and leave me!"
The spectres remained motionless, their eyes still fixed upon him.
"Mercy!" he cried. "Have mercy!"
Yes, mercy! ... he begged for mercy! Their looks would kill him! He could not bear it any longer! It was too much! His fright now bordered on madness, and he cried out: "Let me alone! I am frightened! horribly frightened!"
So saying he tottered forward, ready to drop from exhaustion, and tried to grasp the back of the chair for support. But it gave way.
"Help! help!" he screamed.
"Hullo! who's calling?" cried a voice outside.
It was Barassin returning from the registrar's office. He opened the grating and entered, then drew back in bewilderment at the sight of Robespierre on the ground, his head buried in his hands. The watchman at once thought that he must have fallen asleep on the chair, and slipped on to the paved courtyard. He laid down his lantern, and tried to raise the Incorruptible. Robespierre awoke and lifted his haggard eyes. At sight of the man he violently pushed him away.
"I see, you're not quite awake yet!" laughed Barassin.
Robespierre rubbed his eyes, and looked anxiously around.