Page:Rolland - Two Plays of the French Revolution.djvu/208

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Act III


[The Revolutionary Tribunal.

The Public Prosecutor Fouquier-Tinville; Herman, the Judge, the Jury, gendarmes, and the People, are present. On the prisoners' bench are Danton, Desmoulins, Hérault, Philippeaux, Westermann, Chabot and the brothers Frey—the last two of whom do not speak—and Fabre d'Églantine, who sits in an arm-chair in their midst. In the front row with the public, sits the painter David and some of his friends. The windows of the room are open, and through them the shouts of the crowd are heard. From time to time, Vadier's head is seen peering through the wicket in the door, behind the Judge, watching the trial. General Hanriot stands at the door. Herman and Fouquier-Tinville cast anxious glances toward him every few moments. Chabot and the brothers Frey are being questioned, and Danton is boiling with rage. Desmoulins appears crushed and discouraged. Hérault calmly looks on, smiling. Philippeaux, jaws set and eyes riveted on his judges, prepares his defense. Fabre d'Églantine, who is ill and suffering, sits back in his chair. The crowd jostle and push, following the trial with great interest. They emphasize with their remarks and shouting

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