LXXV

not wish to secure the throne of Louis XVIII , or we should not take so much care to avoid the vigilance of the police. It would be conceding too much to allow you to put on a mask to aid you in the discovery of our secret, and then to remove it that you may ruin those who have confided in you. No, no, you must first say if you declare yourself for the king of a day who now reigns, or for his majesty the emperor.” “ ‘ “I am a royalist,” replied the general; “I have taken the oath of allegiance to Louis XVIII , and I will adhere to it.” These words were followed by a general murmur, and it was evident that several of the members were discussing the propriety of making the general repent of his rashness. “ ‘The president again arose, and having imposed silence, said⁠—“Sir, you are too serious and too sensible a man not to understand the consequences of our present situation, and your candor has already dictated to us the conditions which remain for us to offer you.” The general, putting his hand on his sword, exclaimed⁠—“If you talk of honor, do not begin by disavowing its laws, and impose nothing by violence.” “ ‘ “And you, sir,” continued the president, with a calmness still more terrible than the general’s anger, “I advise you not to touch your sword.” The general looked around him with slight uneasiness; however he did not yield, but calling up all his fortitude, said⁠—“I will not swear.” “ ‘ “Then you must die,” replied the president calmly. M. d’Épinay became very pale; he looked round him a second