He's far too shrewd to wish to be a deputy.

He already pulls the strings which set most of the Catholic deputies who have 'rallied' to the Republican Government in motion." Pierre himself had just noticed Monseigneur Martha's smiling face.

And, somehow or other, however modest might be the prelate's demeanour, it seemed to him that he really played an important part in what was going on.

He could hardly take his eyes from him.

It was as if he expected that he would suddenly order men hither and thither, and direct the whole march of events.
"Ah!" said Massot again.