“When the French people hear that, they will rise as one man!” exclaimed the journalist, and illustrated with a vigorous rising of both arms.
“What will your workers do, your Socialists?” asked Robbie. It was a question which troubled everybody.
The other said: “Look,” and indicated with his eyes. “Over there at that table by the window. The question is being settled tonight.” The American saw eight or ten men sitting at dinner, talking among themselves. They might have been journalists like M. Pastier, or perhaps doctors or lawyers. At the head of the table was a large stoutish man with a heavy gray beard, a broad face, and grand-fatherly appearance. “Jaurès,” whispered the Frenchman.
Lanny had heard the name; he knew it was one of the Socialist leaders, and that he made eloquent speeches in the Chamber of Deputies. What Lanny saw was a heavy-set old gentleman with baggy clothes, talking excitedly, with many gestures. “They are Socialist editors and deputies,” explained M. Pastier. “They have just returned from the conference at Brussels.”
The three watched for a while, and others in the restaurant did the same. The Socialists were men of the people, deciding the affairs of the people, and there was no need for them to hide themselves. Lanny decided that their leader must be a kind old gentleman, but he look exhausted and harassed.
“It is a grave problem for them,” explained the journalist; “for they are internationalists, and against war. But Jaurès spoke plainly to the Germans at Brussels — if they obey their Kaiser and march, there will be nothing for the French workers to do but defend their patrie. Have you seen L'Humanité this morning?”
“I don't patronize it,” said Robbie.
“Jaurès speaks of 'Man's irremediable need to save his family and his country even through armed nationalism.'”
“Too bad he didn't discover that before he began advocating the general strike in case of war!”
“Jaurès is an honest man; I say it, even though I have opposed him. I have known him for many years. Would you be interested to meet him?”