"What have I to fear in the midst of my people ?" said the prince, boldly advancing towards the assailants.
These words, his advancing step, the serenity of his brow, the respect of so many ages for the sacred person of the king, suspended the impetuosity of the ringleaders, and they appeared to hesitate in crossing the threshold they had burst open.

During this doubtful moment, the Marshal de Mouchy, Acloque, the three grenadiers and two servants, made the king retreat a few paces, and then placed themselves between him and the populace.

The grenadiers presented their bayonets, and for a moment kept the crowd at bay.

But the increasing mob pushed forward the first ranks.

The first who pressed in was a man in rags, with naked arms, haggard eyes, and foaming at the mouth.