At this recital Bailly did not hesitate to proclaim martial law, and to unfurl the red flag, the last resource against sedition.

On their side, the mob, alarmed at the aspect of the red flag floating from the windows of the Hotel-de-Ville, despatched twelve of their number as a deputation to the municipality.

These commissioners with difficulty made their way to the audience-hall, through a forest of bayonets, and demanded that three citizens who had been arrested should be given up to them.

No attention was paid to them, however, and the resolution of employing force was adopted.

The mayor and authorities descended the steps of the Hotel-de-Ville, uttering threats of their intentions.