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at which the finger is pointed. The thing which is denounced is like the
savour of forbidden fruit; we rush to eat it. Besides, applause which
irritates some one, especially if that some one is in authority, is
sweet. To perform, whilst passing a pleasant evening, both an act of
kindness to the oppressed and of opposition to the oppressor is
agreeable. You are protecting at the same time that you are being
amused. So the theatrical caravans on the bowling-green continued to
howl and to cabal against the Laughing Man. Nothing could be better
calculated to enhance his success. The shouts of one's enemies are
useful and give point and vitality to one's triumph. A friend wearies
sooner in praise than an enemy in abuse. To abuse does not hurt. Enemies
are ignorant of this fact. They cannot help insulting us, and this
constitutes their use. They cannot hold their tongues, and thus keep the
public awake.
The crowds which flocked to "Chaos Vanquished" increased daily.
Ursus kept what Master Nicless had said of intriguers and complaints in
high places to himself, and did not tell Gwynplaine, lest it should
trouble the ease of his acting by creating anxiety. If evil was to come,
he would be sure to know it soon enough.
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