Roudier, who had quietly followed the scene from his corner, making signs in support of the proposed measures of prudence, got up and joined them.

When the marquis and Vuillet had likewise risen, Pierre began: "Now that we are alone, among peaceable men, I propose that we should conceal ourselves so as to avoid certain arrest, and be at liberty as soon as ours again becomes the stronger party." Granoux was ready to embrace him.

Roudier and Vuillet breathed more easily.
"I shall want you shortly, gentlemen," the oil-dealer continued, with an important air.

"It is to us that the honour of restoring order in Plassans is reserved." "You may rely upon us!" cried Vuillet, with an enthusiasm which disturbed Felicite.
Time was pressing.

These singular defenders of Plassans, who hid themselves the better to protect the town, hastened away, to bury themselves in some hole or other.