Henri had asked his friend to accompany him in the attack which
he was to make near the river, but Adolphe had excused himself, alleging
that he had a great dislike to the water, and that he would in
preference accompany Charles de Lescure. Henri had not thought much
about it, and certainly had imputed no blame to his friend, as there
would be full as much scope for gallantry with his cousin as with
himself. When de Lescure saw that his men hesitated, he said, "Come my
men, forward with 'Marie Jeanne,' we will soon pick their locks for
them," and rushed on the bridge alone; seeing that no one followed him
he returned, and said to Denot:
"We must shew them an example, Adolphe; we will run to the other side
of the bridge and return; after that, they will follow us."
De Lescure did not in the least doubt the courage of his friend, and
again ran on to the bridge. Stofflet and Father Jerome immediately
followed him, but Adolphe Denot did not stir. He was armed with a heavy
sabre, and when de Lescure spoke to him, he raised his arm as though
attempting to follow him, but the effort was too much for him, his whole
body shook, his face turned crimson, and he remained standing where he
was.
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