Page:The Rebellion in the Cevennes (Volume 1).djvu/172

Rh and sipping choice wines, when, suddenly, a great uproar was raised in the house, several men's footsteps were heard hastening up the steps, the doors burst open and in rushed the clergyman of St. Sulpice, pale, and trembling, followed by a few citizens, and among these a young man who seemed quite beside himself. "What is the matter?" demanded the Marshal in an authoritative tone, and the Intendant arose and addressed himself to the young citizen. "Now Clement," said he, "recollect yourself, what has happened to you ?" "Is not this the leader of the city militia at Nismes?" asked the Marshal with contempt.

"Even so," replied the Lord of Basville, "he led the troop of volunteers." "He seems to have lost the power of speech in his expedition," said the Lord of Montrevel, laughing.

"They are behind us—they will be here directly," stammered out young Clement.

"Who?" enquired the Marshal, who had resumed his seat.