There was a pause while he made a suggestion, which met with the approval of both the Mayor and Détraz and brought the discussion to an end.
“To make up for what you have done, Maillard, you must take your pupils to the memorial service.”
And the Mayor, anxious to take the credit of the victory to himself, added:
“And you must hoist the flag on the town hall at once, at half mast.”
He departed with an important air, still escorted by his two councillors.
“Now,” said Randon, “let us go up to Le Maupas.”
Simon applauded heartily.
“Yes, yes,” he cried. “The General sent an officer and the prefect a young gentleman with silver lace on his trousers. The Mayor will be represented in person with two members of the council, as it should be. That will impress them.”
As they passed through the village they noticed Pitet, the Red, in a field. He was looking very humble, and avoided their eyes. Détraz called out to him, without managing to attract his attention.
“He is a coward,” said the Mayor, full of courage himself.