The chamber itself was divided into two camps, separated by a wide space.

Harsh names were exchanged, threatening gesticulations used, and hats were raised and shaken about on the tops of canes.

"I am called a wretch," (_scelerat_) continued Guadet, "and yet I am not allowed to denounce a man who invariably thrusts his personal pride in advance of the public welfare.

A man who, incessantly talking of patriotism, abandons the post to which he was called! Yes, I denounce to you a man who, either from ambition or misfortune, has become the idol of the people!" Here the tumult reached its height, and drowned the voice of Guadet.
Robespierre himself requested silence for his enemy.

"Well," added Guadet, alarmed or softened by Robespierre's feigned generosity, "I denounce to you a man who, from love of the liberty of his country, ought perhaps to impose upon himself the law of ostracism; for to remove him from his own idolatry is to serve the people!" These words were smothered under peals of affected laughter.