ts prudence the task of investigating
the causes of this event, weighing its circumstances, and taking the
necessary measures to maintain the Constitution and assure the
inviolability and constitutional liberty of the hereditary
representative of the nation. For my part, nothing can prevent me, at
all times and under all circumstances, from performing the duties
imposed on me by the Constitution, which I have accepted in the true
interests of the French nation."

A few moments after this letter had been read, the session was
disturbed by a warning from the {224} municipal agent of the
department, to the effect that an armed crowd were marching towards the
palace. This was soon followed by tidings that Petion had hindered
their further advance, and the mayor himself came to the Assembly to
receive the laudations of his friends. "Order reigns everywhere," said
he; "all precautions have been taken. The magistrates have done their
duty; they will always do so, and the hour approaches when justice will
be rendered them."

Petion then went to the Tuileries, where he addressed the King nearly
in these terms:--

"Sire, we learn that you have been warned of the arrival of a crowd at
the palace. We come to announce that this crowd is composed of unarmed
citizens who wish to set up a may-pole. I know, Sire, that the
municipality has been calumniated; but its conduct will be understood
by you."--"It ought to be by all France," responded Louis XVI.; "I
accuse no one in particular, I saw everything."--"It will be," returned
the mayor; "and but for the prudent measures taken by the municipality,
much more disagreeable events might have occurred." The King attempted
to reply, but Petion, without listening to him, went on: "Not to your
own person; you may well understand that it will always be respected."
The King, unaccustomed to interruption when speaking, said in a loud
voice: "Be silent!" There was silence for an instant, and then Louis
XVI. added: "Is it what you call respecting {225} my person to enter my
house in arms, break down my doors and use force to my
guards?"--"Sire," answered Petion, "I know the extent of my duties and
of my responsibility."--"Do your duty!" replied Louis XVI.; "You are
answerable for the tranquillity of Paris. Adieu!" And the King turned
his back on the mayor.

Petion revenged himself that very evening, by circulating a rumor that
the royal family were preparing to escape; in consequence,