And they recalled all that he had done for the cause of order: the yellow drawing-room always open to the friends of authority, his services as spokesman in the three quarters of the town, the store of arms which had been his idea, and especially that memorable night--that night of prudence and heroism--in which he had rendered himself forever illustrious.

Granoux added that he felt sure of the admiration and gratitude of the municipal councillors.
"Don't stir from your house," he concluded; "I will come and fetch you to lead you back in triumph." Then Roudier said that he quite understood the tact and modesty of their friend, and approved it.

Nobody would think of accusing him of ambition, but all would appreciate the delicacy which prompted him to take no office save with the consent of his fellow-citizens.

That was very dignified, very noble, altogether grand.
Under this shower of eulogies, Rougon humbly bowed his head.

"No, no; you go too far," he murmured, with voluptuous thrillings of exquisite pleasure.