Several times he thought he recognized the man
by his peculiar build, but in each case he soon found another that looked
just the same in the crowd.
Jean also, at Chester's request, had put his keen eyes to the test; but
he was no more fortunate. However, both realized that, some place in that
crowd Duval had his eyes on them.
In the distance came the faint sound of a bell, as a clock chimed the
first stroke of the hour of noon; and, with the last stroke, the
President of France appeared upon the steps of the palace.
A great roar of applause went up from the crowd and continued for fully
five minutes; nor did it cease at once as the President advanced to the
very edge of the uppermost step and raised a hand for silence.
Then, gradually, the sounds of tumult died down, and President Poincare
opened his mouth and began to speak.
One, two, three minutes the President spoke, while all about reigned the
silence of death; then, suddenly, at the expiration of the third minute,
he stepped back suddenly, while at the same moment a long line of French
soldiers stepped into place in front of him.
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