‘If he talks of property, I’ll put him in my list,’ said Laroche. ‘He whose existence is secure is unworthy to live.’
‘A grand sentiment that,’ said another; ‘let us drink it!’ and they arose and drained their glasses to the toast.
‘The Duc de Dampierre, has any one got him down?’ asked Guadet.
‘I have ‘—’ and I ‘—’ and I,’ said several together.
‘I demand a reprieve for the Duke,’ said another. ‘I was at college with him at Nantes, and he is a good fellow, and kind-hearted.’
‘Miserable patriot,’ said Guadet, laughing, ‘that can place his personal sympathies against the interests of the State.’
‘Parbleu!’ cried Laroche, looking over his neighbour’s arm. ‘Gensonné has got Robespierre’s name down!’
‘And why not? I detest him. Menard was right when he called him a “Loup en toilette de bal!”’
‘What a list Menard has here!’ said Guadet, holding it up, as he read aloud. ‘All who have served the court, or whose families have, for the last three generations—all who employ court tailors, barbers, shoemakers, or armourers——’
‘Pray add, all whose names can be traced to baptismal registries, or who are alleged to have been born in wedlock,’ said Lescour. ‘Let us efface the vile aristocracy effectually!’