I cannot, however, bear him out in his assertions respecting the menacing calm of Paris, and the indomitable attitude of its National Guards.

M.Blanc, like most of his countrymen, mistakes the wish for the will, words for deeds, promises for performance.

What has happened here, and what is happening?
The forts are manned with sailors, who conscientiously fire off their cannon.

A position has been lost.

Two sorties consisting of troops and armed peasants have been driven back.
The National Guards do duty on the ramparts, drill in the streets, offer crowns to the statue of Strasburg, wear uniforms, and announce that they have made a pact with death.