Our ancient privileges are being laughed at.

It must end." This declaration was greeted by shouts, sundry clattering of pewter lids and noisy rappings of earthenware on the tables.

"Have we no rights as students?
Must we give way to a handful of beggarly mercenaries?
Must we submit to the outlawing of our customs and observances?
What! We must not parade because the king does not like to be disturbed?
And who are the cuirassiers ?" Nobody answered.

Nobody was expected to answer.

"They are Frenchmen of hated memory--Swiss, Prussians, with Austrian officers.