They fancied they had heard some distant sound of fighting; but it was only the jingle of the little brass shaving-dishes hanging from chains, which are used as signs by the barbers of Southern France.
These dishes were gently shaking to and fro in the breeze.

After each halt, the saviours of Plassans continued their stealthy march in the dark, retaining the while the mien of terrified heroes.

In this manner they reached the square in front of the Town Hall.

There they formed a group round Rougon, and took counsel together once more.

In the facade of the building in front of them only one window was lighted.