And the quiver of his hands again revealed how feverishly impatient he was to know what it might be.

However, he could only wait, since Monferrand was still busy discussing such grave affairs.
On seeing Duvillard enter, the Minister had stepped forward, offering his hand.

However much the blast of terror might shake others, he had retained his calmness and good-natured smile.

"What an affair, eh, my dear Baron!" he exclaimed.
"It's idiotic!" plainly declared the other, with a shrug of his shoulders.

Then he sat down in the armchair vacated by Barroux, while the Minister installed himself in front of him.