An old broken lantern which I have just seen at a bric-a-brac merchant’s suggests a reflection to my mind; it is time to enlighten the human race. Yes, behold me sad again. That’s what comes of swallowing an oyster and a revolution the wrong way! I am growing melancholy once more. Oh! frightful old world. People strive, turn each other out, prostitute themselves, kill each other, and get used to it!”

And Grantaire, after this fit of eloquence, had a fit of coughing, which was well earned.

“Apropos of revolution,” said Joly, “it is decidedly abberent that Barius is in love.”

“Does anyone know with whom?” demanded Laigle.

“Do.”

“No?”

“Do! I tell you.”