It was impossible to control the cataract-like passions of the rioters.

He heard their awful roar for the sign.

The din had risen to terrific proportions.

The thought of what might happen next appalled him.

The mob might begin to bombard the sign with brickbats, and from the sign pass to the building, and from the building to the constables, and then--but the mayor glanced not beyond, for he had determined to appease the fury of the mob by throwing down to it the hateful sign.