GERMINAL
on the one side, had its new tariff; the workers, on the other, their demand for an incease of five centimes the tram. In order that they might have no illusions, he warned them that their terms would certainly be rejected by the directors.
"Reflect before committing any follies," he repeated, disturbed at their silence.
In the porch Pierron bowed very low, while Levaque pretended to adjust his cap. Maheu was trying to find something to say before leaving, when Étienne again touched his elbow. And they all left in the midst of this threatening silence. The door closed with a loud bang.
When M. Hennebeau re-entered the dining-room he found his guests motionless and silent before the liqueurs. In two words he told his story to Deneulin, whose face grew still more gloomy. Then, as he drank his cold coffee, they tried to speak of other things. But the Grégoires themselves returned to the subject of the strike, expressing their astonishment that no laws existed to prevent workmen from leaving their work. Paul reassured Cécile, stating that they were expecting the police.
At last Madame Hennebeau called the servant.
"Hippolyte, before we go into the drawing-room just open the windows and let in a little air."
[198]
