In presence of such irony Olivier lost all self-control.
"And they can applaud him, the fools! They can applaud him!"
The fury of the multitude, now unchained, knew no bounds. Cries of "To death with him! To death!" were heard amidst the awful tumult, which completely drowned the voice of Robespierre, whose anxiety was now also aroused. Olivier, down-trodden, his clothes torn to tatters, fought and struggled in the grasp of twenty or more of the infuriated populace. "He must be killed! He is an aristocrat! A chouan! To death with him!" One of the patriots lifted a be-ribboned spike in the air, threatening to pierce his eyes. But a man armed to the teeth, dagger and pistols in his belt, pushed aside the crowd and seized the offender by the throat. He then turned and bade them make way for the officers of the peace who followed him.
"Stand back there!" he cried. "This man is to be dealt with by justice only!"
It was Héron, chief police-agent of the Committee of Public Safety.
With the assistance of his men Héron dragged the offender to the feet of Robespierre, who, being informed of the affair, had asked to see the interrupter.
But a vociferating crowd obstructed the passage. Robespierre impatiently descended the steps of the altar. The whole Convention and the cortège had moved also, wishing to see. The police forced a way in the crowd for Robespierre. At the name of the Incorruptible the multitude gave way, and Olivier appeared before him, struggling in the powerful grasp of Héron.
"Against whom does this madman, who disturbs our fête, bear a grudge?" asked Robespierre.
"Against you! hypocrite and scoundrel!" Olivier cried; "against you, who dare speak of justice and humanity on this spot soaked with the blood you have spilled!"
A horrified scream rose from the crowd, but was as soon hushed at a sign from Robespierre. Olivier tried to throw himself on him, but was held back by the police.