Collot d'Herbois. Ask you proofs? 160
Robespierre, what proofs were ask'd when Brissot died?

Legendre. What proofs adduced you when the Danton died?
When at the imminent peril of my life
I rose, and fearless of thy frowning brow,
Proclaim'd him guiltless?

Robespierre. I remember well 165
The fatal day. I do repent me much
That I kill'd Caesar and spar'd Antony.
[[508]]But I have been too lenient. I have spared
The stream of blood, and now my own must flow
To fill the current. [Loud applauses.
Triumph not too soon, 170
Justice may yet be victor.

Enter St. Just, and mounts the Tribune.

St. Just. I come from the Committee—charged to speak
Of matters of high import. I omit
Their orders. Representatives of France,
Boldly in his own person speaks St. Just 175
What his own heart shall dictate.

Tallien. Hear ye this,
Insulted delegates of France? St. Just
From your Committee comes—comes charg'd to speak
Of matters of high import, yet omits
Their orders! Representatives of France, 180
That bold man I denounce, who disobeys
The nation's orders.—I denounce St. Just. [Loud applauses.

St. Just. Hear me! [Violent murmurs.

Robespierre. He shall be heard!

Bourdon l'Oise. Must we contaminate this sacred hall
With the foul breath of treason?

Collot d'Herbois. Drag him away! 185
Hence with him to the bar.