reputation is nothing, and posterity a stinking cesspool!
Philippeaux. And virtue, Danton?
Danton. Ask my wife whether mine satisfies her.
Philippeaux. You don't believe what you say. You libel yourself and play into the hands of the enemy.
Westermann [bursts forth after attempting to restrain himself]. You damned gossips and braggarts! Some of them declaim about their virtues, and some about their vices. You can't do anything but talk. Your city is a nest of petty lawyers. The enemy is threatening us. Danton, tell me, yes or no, are you going to do anything?
Danton. Don't bother me. I've given my life and my peace of mind to save the Republic, but it doesn't deserve a single hour I have sacrificed. I tell you, Danton has at last bought the right to live for himself.
Camille. Danton has not bought the right to be a Siéyès.
Danton. Am I a draft-horse, condemned to turn the millstone till I drop?
Camille. You have entered a narrow pass surrounded by steep precipices and you cannot turn back: you must go on. The enemy are at hand; if you stop, they will push you over the side. They are already lifting a hand and planning when and where to strike.
Danton. I have only to turn and show them my mane, and they will fall back in dismay.
Westermann. Do it, then. What are you waiting for?
