To avoid isolation, to
rejoin the most numerous herd as soon as possible, to always form
masses and bodies and thus follow the impulsion which comes from
above, and gather together scattered individuals, such is the instinct
of the flock.
In the battalion of federates, they begin by saying that, as the
Constitution is now accepted and the convention recognized, it is no
longer allowed to protect deputies whom it has declared outlaws: "that
would be creating a faction." Thereupon, the deputies withdraw from
the battalion, and, in a little squad by themselves, march along
separately. As they are nineteen in number, resolute and well armed,
the authorities of the market-towns through which they pass make no
opposition by force; it would be offering battle, and that surpasses a
functionary's zeal; moreover, the population is either indifferent
toward them or sympathetic. Nevertheless, efforts are made to stop
them, sometimes to surround them and take them by surprise; for, a
warrant of arrest is out against them, transmitted through the
hierarchical channel, and every local magistrate feels bound to do his
duty as gendarme. Under this administrative network, the meshes of
which they encounter everywhere, the proscribed deputies can do naught
else but hide in caves or escape by sea.
Pages:
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66