They completely filled their pockets with them.

Then, after they had loaded their guns, with endless precautions, they lingered there for another moment, looking at each other with suspicious eyes, or exchanging glances in which cowardly ferocity was mingled with an expression of stupidity.
In the streets they kept close to the houses, marching silently and in single file, like savages on the war-path.

Rougon had insisted upon having the honour of marching at their head; the time had come when he must needs run some risk, if he wanted to see his schemes successful.
Drops of perspiration poured down his forehead in spite of the cold.
Nevertheless he preserved a very martial bearing.

Roudier and Granoux were immediately behind him.

Upon two occasions the column came to an abrupt halt.