Consequently, in the decrees as promulgated, after the words Louis, by the grace of God," etc., these words should follow: "People, behold the law imposed on you! Let this law be considered sacred and inviolable for all!" Upon this, a Gascon deputy arises and remarks in his southern accent, "Gentlemen, this style is unsuitable--there is no need for sermons.[31104] (cantique)." General laughter; Robespierre keeps silent and bleeds internally: two or three such mishaps nettle such a man from head to foot.

It is not that his stupid remarks seem silly to him; no pedant taken in the act and hissed would avow that he deserved such treatment; on the contrary, he is content to have spoken as becomes a philosophic and moral legislator, and so much the worse for the narrow minds and corrupt hearts unable to comprehend him .-- Thrown back upon himself, his wounded vanity seeks inward nourishment and takes what it can find in the sterile uniformity of his bourgeois moderation.

Robespierre, unlike Danton, has no cravings.

He is sober; he is not tormented by his senses; if he gives way to them, it is only no further than he can help, and with a bad grace.

In the rue Saintonge in Paris, "for seven months," says his secretary,[31105] "I knew of but one woman that he kept company with, and he did not treat her very well.