His wife combed his hair and tied his cravat, turning him about like a child going to a distribution of prizes.

And when he was ready, she examined him, declared that he looked very nice, and that he would make a very good figure in the midst of the serious events that were preparing.

His big pale face wore an expression of grave dignity and heroic determination.

She accompanied him to the first landing, giving him her last advice: he was not to depart in any way from his courageous demeanour, however great the panic might be; he was to have the gates closed more hermetically than ever, and leave the town in agonies of terror within its ramparts; it would be all the better if he were to appear the only one willing to die for the cause of order.
What a day it was! The Rougons still speak of it as of a glorious and decisive battle.

Pierre went straight to the town-hall, heedless of the looks or words that greeted him on his way.