:22:01
Book? Book? I never read books.
Who's it by?
:22:05
A certain Émile Zola.
:22:08
A civilian daring to criticize the army.
:22:11
He wasn't exactly criticizing, sir.
I've read the book.
:22:15
The war has been over for many years,
but I've gathered, as Zola says...
:22:19
...there were times in that campaign
when our staffwork wasn't brilliant.
:22:23
- What?
- We should admit our mistakes.
:22:27
The army does not
make mistakes, Picquart...
:22:31
...and it will not tolerate
civilian criticism.
:22:35
I suggest that you see
the chief censor about this book.
:22:41
Tell him the army demands
the punishment of this upstart.
:22:48
Chief censor, over there.
:22:55
- Monsieur.
- Mr. Zola...
:22:57
...I sent for you because every book
you've written has caused trouble.
:23:01
You attacked the Second Empire.
You attacked the Third Republic.
:23:05
Germinal caused a furor and unrest
among the miners that lasted for years.
:23:11
- Nana: Brutal, disgusting.
- But true.
:23:15
All of them stirring France
to restlessness, angry passion.
:23:19
And now this Downfall,
attacking our army.
:23:23
The army heads are furious.
:23:25
Such a book makes the whole country
lose confidence and respect.
:23:28
Lose confidence in inefficiency?
:23:31
Lose respect for cowardice and stupidity?
:23:34
- That would be a pity, monsieur.
- You'll write no more such books.
:23:38
Except, perhaps, one about the rascality
of army-ridden politicians.
:23:43
That's an idea.
To expose the government itself...
:23:47
...with as much truth and accuracy
as I put into The Downfall.
:23:51
- A book that would show...
- No, no. I mean...
:23:54
...you're a reasonable man,
Monsieur Zola.
:23:56
We only want to do
what we think is best for our country.