Deeds of heroism performed upon the battle-field ought to teach us that the worst scoundrels may become heroes.

But here in this place you are living under exceptional circumstances; and if your benevolence is not controlled by reflection and judgment you run the risk of supporting your enemies." "Our enemies ?" exclaimed the countess.
"Cruel enemies," said the general, gravely.
"Pere Fourchon and his son-in-law Tonsard," said the abbe, "are the strength and the intelligence of the lower classes of this valley, who consult them on all occasions.

The Machiavelism of these people is beyond belief.

Ten peasants meeting in a tavern are the small change of great political questions." Just then Francois announced Monsieur Sibilet.
"He is my minister of finance," said the general, smiling; "ask him in.
He will explain to you the gravity of the situation," he added, looking at his wife and Blondet.
"Because he has reasons of his own for not concealing it," said the cure, in a low tone.
Blondet then beheld a personage of whom he had heard much ever since his arrival, and whom he desired to know, the land-steward of Les Aigues.

He saw a man of medium height, about thirty years of age, with a sulky look and a discontented face, on which a smile sat ill.