All of the race which has gone before holds them fast, and compels them as the wheels of the State compel us.

The dead sternly point out the way to them, as the living do to us.

We all of us know nothing, kings and ministers as little as we, of the real forces at work.

What these forces will do, and what they strive to attain to, is hidden from us, and we only see what is nearest to us, without any connection with its causes and final operation.

That is why it seems to me better to do what one sees as one's duty at the moment, rather than to give ourselves the absurd appearance of being free in our movements, and certain as to our goal." Paul pressed his hand at parting, and murmured: "Theoretically you are right, but practically I do not see why the tyrant at the Tuileries need begin with us.