Rougon, however,
formed a heroic resolution. He advanced towards the group, and in a very
proud tone exclaimed: "We will keep this man here. When he has reflected
on his position he will be able to give us some useful information."
Then, in a still more dignified voice, he went on: "I will discharge my
duty, gentlemen. I have sworn to save the town from anarchy, and I
will save it, even should I have to be the executioner of my nearest
relative."
One might have thought him some old Roman sacrificing his family on the
altar of his country. Granoux, who felt deeply moved, came to press his
hand with a tearful countenance, which seemed to say: "I understand you;
you are sublime!" And then he did him the kindness to take everybody
away, under the pretext of conducting the four other prisoners into the
courtyard.
When Pierre was alone with his brother, he felt all his self-possession
return to him. "You hardly expected me, did you?" he resumed. "I
understand things now; you have been laying plots against me. You
wretched fellow; see what your vices and disorderly life have brought
you to!"
Macquart shrugged his shoulders. "Shut up," he replied; "go to the
devil. You're an old rogue. He laughs best who laughs last."
Thereupon Rougon, who had formed no definite plan with regard to him,
thrust him into a dressing-room whither Monsieur Garconnet retired to
rest sometimes. This room lighted from above, had no other means of
exit than the doorway by which one entered.
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