we must respect it, even in the king; if it be
but a shadow, still should we respect and honour it. The ministerial
council assembled, and the king declared that he was not forced by the
new constitution to expose the monarchical dignity represented in his
person to the outrages of the Assembly, and that he would order the
ministers to preside at the opening of the legislative body.

This rumour created a reaction in Paris in favour of the king. The
Assembly, as yet undecided, felt the blow; and that the popularity it
sought was fast disappearing. "What has been the result of the decree of
yesterday?" said the deputy Vosgien, at the opening of the sitting of
the 6th of October. "Fresh hopes for the enemies of the public welfare,
agitation of the people, depreciation of our credit, general
disquietude. Let us pay to the hereditary representative of the people
the respect that is his due. Do not let him believe that he is destined
to be the mockery and the plaything of each fresh legislation; it is
time for the constitution to cast anchor, and fix itself with firmness
and stability."

Vergniaud, the hitherto unknown orator of the Gironde, displayed in his
opening speech that audacious yet undecided character that was the type
of his policy. His speeches were uncertain as his mind; he spoke in
favour of one party, and voted for the other. "We all appear to agree,"
said he, "that if this decree concerns our internal regulations, it
should be instantly put into execution; and it is evident to me that the
decree does concern our internal regulations, for there can be no
connection of authority between the legislative body and the king. It is
merely a question of those marks of respect which are demanded to be
shown to the royal dignity. I know not why the titles of Sire and
Majesty, which recall feudality, should be restored; for the king ought
to glory in the title of King of the French. I ask you, whether the king
demanded a decree to regulate the etiquette of his household when he
received your deputation? However, to speak my opinion without reserve,
I think that if the king, as a mark of respect to the Assembly, rises
and uncovers his head, the Assembly, as a mark of respect to the king,
should imitate his example."

Herault de Sechelles demanded the repeal of the decree, and Champion,
deputy of the Jura, reproached his colleagues for employing their
meetings in such puerile debates. "I do not fear that the people will