They were two men of the same mind.

The Revolution, which had been the ideal of their youth, had called them on the scene the same day, but to play very different parts.

Brissot, the scribe, political adventurer, journalist, was the man of theory; Petion, the practical man.

He had in his countenance, in his character, and his talents, that solemn mediocrity which is of the multitude, and charms it; at least he was a sincere man, a virtue which the people appreciate beyond all others in those who are concerned in public affairs.

Called by his fellow citizens to the National Assembly, he acquired there a name rather from his efforts than his success.