Robespierre turned to St. Just and Couthon. They held an animated discussion, during which both the latter were seen to remonstrate. Finally at a signal from the president, the entire committee withdrew for consultation.
Tournay glanced about the room. He knew that he had the interest and sympathy of most who were present, and from the manner in which the inquiry had been conducted, he felt little anxiety as to the result.
He had not long to wait before the members of the committee entered the room and took their places.
The president touched the bell. St. Just rose, and speaking with apparent reluctance said:—
"The committee do not find sufficient evidence to warrant the trial of Colonel Robert Tournay upon the charge of treason to the Republic."
A cheer rang through the room, which was re-echoed in the corridor and out into the street beyond.
The president touched his bell sharply. St. Just continued:—
"The committee relieves Colonel Tournay from his command for the present. He will await here in Paris the orders of the committee in regard to returning to the army. The inquiry is now ended, and the meeting adjourns."
Tournay walked out of the court accompanied by Danton and through the street to his friend's lodgings, followed by an admiring crowd cheering the hero of Landau.
Two incidents took place in quick succession during the short walk to Danton's house.