Dangeau did not swear, but he nodded his head as who should say Amen, and his face was bitter hard.
"Is anything intended here?" he asked sharply.
"No, not from head-quarters; but Heaven knows what may happen when the mob tastes blood."
Dangeau gave a short laugh.
"Why, Jacques?" said Cléry, surprised.
"Why, Edmond," repeated Dangeau sardonically, "I was thinking that it would be a queer turn for Fate to play if you and I were to die to-morrow, fighting in defence of Capet against the people."
"You would do that?" asked Edmond.
"But naturally, my friend, since we are responsible for him."
He had been leaning carelessly against the wall, but as he spoke he straightened himself.
"Our friends upstairs will be getting impatient," he said aloud. "Who takes the night duty with me?"