Pierre, though he was burning with desire to make a display of his devotion before his fellow-citizens, had not ventured to reckon upon such a fine opportunity.
He spoke sublimely.

It was in the mayor's private room that the president of the Provisional Commission received the deputation from the new town.

The gentlemen of the deputation, after paying homage to his patriotism, besought him to forego all resistance.

But he, in a loud voice, talked of duty, of his country, of order, of liberty, and various other things.

Moreover, he did not wish to compel any one to imitate him; he was simply discharging a duty which his conscience and his heart dictated to him.
"You see, gentlemen, I am alone," he said in conclusion.