Quand l’arbre est tombé tout le monde court aux branches = When the tree falls every one goeth to it with his hatchet.
Il s’est toujours tenu au gros de l’arbre = He has always sided with the stronger side.
Arc
Débander l’arc ne guérit pas la plaie = To cease doing mischief does not undo the harm one has done.
Arçon
Être ferme sur les arçons = (lit.) To have a firm seat in the saddle; (fig.) Not to waver in one’s principles.
Il a vidé les arçons = He was unhorsed.
L’argent est un bon passe-partout = Gold goes in at any gate, except heaven.
[“Amour fait moult
Mais argent fait tout.”]