It was a vote of contending passions, all evil, and which could only produce a loss to all parties.

The king alone was averse from this measure.

He perceived repentance in the National Assembly--he was in communication with its leading members--he had the key to many consciences.

A new nation, unknown and impatient, was about to present it before him in a new Assembly.

The reports of the press, the clubs, and places of popular bruit told him, but too plainly, on what men the excited people would bestow their confidence.