Act II. Café Hottot in Paris, several years later. _Chénier_ has

offended the Revolutionists by denouncing Robespierre. A spy is watching _Bersi_, _Madeleine's_ old nurse, and sees her hand _Chénier_ a letter. It is from _Madeleine_. She loves him. She is dogged by spies, begs him come to her aid, and arranges a meeting.

Robespierre passes, followed by a mob. _Gérard_, now high in favour, seeks to possess _Madeleine_, who comes to meet the poet. They are about to flee, when _Gérard_, notified by the spy, interposes. _Chénier_ and _Gérard_ fight with swords. _Gérard_ is wounded. The lovers escape.