There was nothing that he liked better than that he should inspire dread in the hearts of all those with whom he came in contact.
"I am just going on my usual nocturnal round," he said abruptly.

"Come with me, citizen de Batz." A certain grim humour was apparent in his face as he proffered this invitation, which sounded like a rough command.

As de Batz seemed to hesitate he nodded peremptorily to him to follow.

Already he had gone into the hall and picked up his lanthorn.

From beneath his waistcoat he drew forth a bunch of keys, which he rattled impatiently, calling to his friend to come.
"Come, citizen," he said roughly.