This one, explained by a very specious theology, like most others, is composed of dogmas called the principles of 1789; they were proclaimed, indeed, at that date, having been previously formulated by Jean-Jacques Rousseau: * The well known sovereignty of the people.
* The rights of Man.
* The social contract.
Once adopted, their practical results unfolded themselves naturally.

In three years these dogmas installed the crocodile on the purple carpet insides the sanctuary behind the golden veil.

He was selected for the place on account of the energy of his jaws and the capacity of his stomach; he became a god through his qualities as a destructive brute and man-eater .-- Comprehending this, the rites which consecrate him and the pomp which surrounds him need not give us any further concern .-- We can observe him, like any ordinary animal, and study his various attitudes, as he lies in wait for his prey, springs upon it, tears it to pieces, swallows it, and digests it.

I have studied the details of his structure, the play of his organs, his habits, his mode of living, his instincts, his faculties, and his appetites .-- Specimens abounded.

I have handled thousands of them, and have dissected hundreds of every species and variety, always preserving the most valuable and characteristic examples, but for lack of room I have been compelled to let many of them go because my collections was too large.