[Undecided whether to offer his hand, he waits for his rival to make the first step. Robespierre does not reply, but shakes hands formally with Lucile and Camille, and bows quickly to Danton. He then sits down. Camille and Danton remain standing. Lucile busies herself as before.]
Lucile. How kind of you to find time to come and visit us! And you must be very busy! Sit closer to the fire. There's a fog outside that chills you to the bone. And how are your dear landlords and hosts, Citizens Duplay, and my little friend Éléonore?
Robespierre. Very well, thank you, Lucile.—Camille, I have something to discuss with you.
Lucile. Shall I leave?
Robespierre. No, not you!
Camille [stopping Danton, who starts to go]. Danton is a partner in all my thoughts.
Robespierre. So they say. But I hesitated to believe it.
Danton. Don't you like it?
Robespierre. I don't think so.
Danton. Well, there is one thing that you can never prevent: people loving Danton.
Robespierre. The word love is common, the reality rare.
Danton [with a sneer]. It is said that there are certain men who never know it.
Robespierre [after a short pause, says coldly, his hands twitching nervously]. I have not come to discuss Danton's debaucheries. Camille, in spite of my warnings, you insist on following bad advice and giving
