Les Misérables Volume III Book 8 Chapter 17-18

In which Marius covertly observes the sinister preparations of the Jondrette household, a den illuminated by the flickering flame of a brazier and charged with an ominous stillness that foreshadows impending violence. The arrival of M. Leblanc brings a tense conversation between men seated opposite one another in this shadow-haunted chamber, while Marius keeps watch armed and vigilant behind the partition.