n a telegraphic agitation, which finally attracted the attention of the swans.
They perceived something floating, steered for the edge like ships, as they are, and slowly directed their course toward the brioche, with the stupid majesty which befits white creatures.
"The swans [cygnes] understand signs [signes]," said the bourgeois, delighted to make a jest.
At that moment, the distant tumult of the city underwent another sudden increase.
This time it was sinister.
There are some gusts of wind which speak more distinctly than others.
The one which was blowing at that moment brought clearly defined drum-beats, clamors, platoon firing, and the dismal replies of the tocsin and the cannon. This coincided with a black cloud which suddenly veiled the sun.
The swans had not yet reached the brioche.
"Let us return home," said the father, "they are attacking the Tuileries."
He grasped his son''s hand again.
Then he continued:
"From the Tuileries to the Luxembourg, there is but the distance which separates Royalty from the peerage; that is not far. Shots will soon rain down."
He glanced at the cloud.
"Perhaps it is rain itself that is about to shower down; the sky is joining in; the younger branch is condemned.
Let us return home quickly."
"I should like to see the swans eat the brioche," said the child.