"How far you purpose to try our patience?
A week ago you were for delaying the arrest you know of--for a day.

It was a matter of hours then." "It was." "But days have passed, and are passing! and we have no explanation; nothing is done.

And every night we run a fresh risk, and every morning--so far--we thank God that our throats are still whole; and every day we strive to see you, and you are out, or engaged, or about to do it, or awaiting news! But this cannot go on for ever! Nor," puffing out his cheeks, "shall we always bear it!" "Messer Baudichon!" Blondel retorted, the passion he had so far restrained gleaming in his eyes, and imparting a tremor to his voice, "are you Fourth Syndic or am I ?" "You! You, certainly.

Who denies it ?" the stout man said.

"But----" "But what?
But what ?" "We would know what you think we are, that we can bear this suspense." "I will tell you what I think you are!" "By your leave ?" "_A fat hog!_" the Syndic shrieked.