Page:Madame Rolland (Blind 1886).djvu/184

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174
MADAME ROLAND.
CHAPTER XIV.

MADAME ROLAND AT THE BAR OF THE CONVENTION.

Dumouriez's attempts to bring about a reconciliation between Madame Roland and Danton proved a failure. Knowing that the latter would be in the adjoining box, the general had offered to escort her to the Opera, where a brilliant reception awaited him. Not caring to be seen in public with this gay Lothario of a Dumouriez, she made some excuse, but afterwards decided on going with Vergniaud. About to enter the Ministerial box, she perceived the bulky Danton, Fabre D'Églantine, and some ladies she thought "of questionable appearance," who, however, it appears, were Danton's wife and her friends. Enough; she retired without being seen by the occupants, whose backs were turned to her. Thus was lost the last chance of healing this unfortunate breach, which, if justified by inherent incompatibility of temperaments, proved so disastrous in its consequences.

Although, for patriotic reasons, Danton was anxious for a conciliation, and entertained a high regard for Roland and much admiration for his wife's genius, he had, after his careless fashion, given the latter a wound