VADIER [noticing SAINT-JUST]. Saint-Just! Good! We shall now make up for lost time. [BILLAUD-VARENNE and VADIER seat themselves unceremoniously. SAINT-JUST walks about. ROBESPIERRE remains standing, and leans against the window-sill. After a pause.]

BILLAUD-VARENNE. The guillotine! You have waited too long, Robespierre: we are in immediate danger. If Danton is still alive tomorrow, the cause of liberty is lost.

ROBESPIERRE. What news?

BILLAUD-VARENNE [with papers in his hand]. Look. The traitor is at it again.

ROBESPIERRE. Who?

VADIER. Your friend, Maximilien: Camille, dear Camille.

ROBESPIERRE. Has he been writing again?

BILLAUD-VARENNE. These proofs have just been seized. Read.

VADIER [rubbing his hands]. The seventh Vieux Cordelier. The continuation of the good apostle's Credo.

ROBESPIERRE. The idiot! Will he not learn to hold his tongue?