Oh, my country, be but thou saved, and I shall breathe my last sigh in peace!" Such were Petion's words, and from that hour he became the idol of the people.

He possessed neither the abilities nor the audacity of Robespierre; but he had hypocrisy, that shameless veil of doubtful positions.

The people believed him to be sincere, and his speeches had the same influence over them as his reputation.
XVIII.
The coalition which he denounced to the people was true.

Barnave had an understanding with the court.

Malouet, an eloquent and able member of the right, had an understanding with Barnave: a plan for modifying the constitution had been concerted between these two men--yesterday foes, to-day allies.