In this they greatly deceive themselves, and, from the first, they are
able to see once more the Jacobins interpretation of electoral
liberty. -- At first, all the registered,[14] and especially the
"suspects," are compelled to vote, and to vote Yes; otherwise, says a
Jacobin journal,[15] "they themselves will indicate the true opinion
one ought to have of their attitudes, and no longer have reason to
complain of suspicions that are found to be so well grounded." They
come accordingly, "very humbly and very penitent." Nevertheless they
meet with a rebuff, and a cold shoulder is turned on them; they are
consigned to a corner of the room, or near the doors, and are openly
insulted. Thus received, it is clear that they will keep quiet and
not risk the slightest objection. At Macon "a few aristocrats
muttered to themselves, but not one dared say No."[16] It would,
indeed, be extremely imprudent. At Montbrison, "six individuals who
decline to vote," are denounced in the proc?s-verbal of the Canton,
while a deputy in the Convention demands "severe measures" against
them. At Nogent-sur-Seine, three administrators, guilty of the same
offense, are to be turned out of office.
Pages:
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38