VADIER. The rotten colossus at last laid low! The Republic can now draw a free breath.
BILLAUD-VARENNE[looking atSAINT-JUST—fiercely] The Republic will never be free until her dictators have disappeared.
SAINT-JUST[looking straight atVADIERandBILLAUD-VARENNE] The Republic will never be pure until the vultures are no more.
VADIER[banteringly]. The Republic will never be free or pure until the Republic is no more!
SAINT-JUST. Ideas do not need men. Peoples pass away in order that God may live.