Combeferre, instead of answering immediately, looks sideways at the approaching Grantaire. It's a mild, patient glance -- of the particular sort which means Combeferre is suppressing exasperation of his own, but Combeferre's supply of patience and self-restraint is one of his many admirable traits.

Enjolras, who is significantly less patient by nature, finds his jaw tightening slightly in renewed irritation. Must Grantaire make such a senseless production of this?

But he glances over as well. If he has consented to give Grantaire an assignment, he must also endeavor to give him the benefit of the doubt. Perhaps then Grantaire will get on with it.