"Nor I," said Seth, "until there's my own skin to keep whole, and then I'll be politician enough to fight for it. It's not only the aristocrats who are dangerous, citizen."
"Why, that's true."
"And if there's a wine shop handy we might drink confusion to all the enemies of liberty," Seth returned.
The porter was nothing loth, and was soon talking glibly enough.
"I'm not to be deceived," he said, eying Seth curiously. "You are a man with power, and Citizen Bruslart is wanted."
"Ah, you may be no politician, but I see you are no fool," answered Seth, with a swagger unnatural to him. "Men are brought out of the provinces to work in Paris sometimes. Maybe that is why you do not know me. There has been some good work done in the provinces and the authorities begin to understand the value of the men who have done it. Now Citizen Bruslart—"
"I know only this," said the porter, confidentially. "He went out very hurriedly one morning, and has not returned. His man followed and has not returned either. I do not think Citizen Bruslart intends to come back."
"But they have not sent to arrest him," said Seth.
"Not until you came, citizen," answered the porter, with a wink to show how exceedingly knowing he was.
"You're a smart man. I might presently find use for you."