it will burn you with the rest—or before the rest. Can't you see that the day Danton is not by, you will be the first to be struck down? I am the one who is still protecting you from the fire.
Robespierre [turning from Danton]. May it consume me!
Camille [aside to Danton]. You said too much, Danton; you wounded his pride.
Danton. In the name of the Patrie, Robespierre, of this Patrie we both love so ardently, let us make peace for us all, friends and enemies—so long as they love France! Let this love wash clean all suspicion and all faults! Without it there is no virtue. With it, no crime.
Robespierre. No Patrie without virtue!
Danton [menacingly]. Once more, I ask you to make peace. You must realize what it costs me to make these advances. But I swallow my pride, if I can help the Republic. Give me your hand; free Fabre; reinstate Westermann; protect Hérault and Philippeaux from the infuriated people.
Robespierre. It is my business to put down crime, not to govern it.
Danton [restraining himself with the greatest difficulty]. So you want war, Robespierre? Think well.
Robespierre [impassive as ever, turns his back on Danton, and speaks to Desmoulins]. Camille, I ask you for the last time: will you cease your attacks on the Committee?
Camille. Let it cease to deserve them!
