Seamen were bustling about, carrying bundles, stores, ammunition, and utensils.

Here and there were soldiers polishing their muskets and swords and small arms.

There was a calling to and fro.

The mayor of the city came in, full of Godspeed and cheer, and following him were priests from the episcopal palace and wealthy burghers who were interested in the great trading company.

All Rochelle was alive.
The vicomte, like all banterers, possessed that natural talent of standing aside and reading faces and dissecting emotions.