The numerous fleet of boats also acclaimed the women's boat, which awoke from its sleepy motion to land rather farther off.
Mr. Paul, contrary to the others, had drawn a key from his pocket and whistled with all his might. His nervous mistress grew paler, caught him by the arm to cause him to be quiet, and upon this occasion she looked at him with fury in her eyes. But he appeared exasperated, as though borne away by jealousy of some man by deep anger, instinctive and ungovernable. He stammered, his lips quivering with indignation:
"It is shameful! They ought to be drowned like dogs with a stone about the neck."
But Madeleine instantly flew into a rage; her small and shrill voice became hissing, and she spoke volubly, as though pleading her own cause:
"And what has it to do with you—you indeed? Are they not at liberty to do what they wish since they owe nobody anything. A truce with your airs and mind your own business...."
But he cut her speech short:
"It is the police whom it concerns, and I will have them marched off to St. Lazare; so I will."
She gave a start:
"You?"
"Yes, I! And in the meantime I forbid you to speak to them, you understand, I forbid you to do so."