personnage muet, man who doesn't count. Technically one who appears on the stage but does not speak.

[142]

cour prévôtale, provost court, or "court martial," "a criminal tribunal temporarily established, and judging without appeal" (Littré).

[143]

bord, party, side, or way of thinking. See also dictionary.

[144]

notre classe. This is a delightful touch. Montrichard, having been republican and bonapartist, now chooses to regard himself as one of the original aristocracy.