During the Assembly he was well acquainted
with Danton. After the September massacre he took refuge in
Switzerland and was put on the list of emigrants. About a month
before the King's death he was desirous of making a last effort and
came to Paris. "I went straight to Danton's house, and, without
giving my name, insisted on seeing him immediately. Finally, I was
admitted and I found Danton in a bath-tub. "You here! "he exclaimed.
"Do you know that I have only to say the word and send you to the
guillotine?" "Danton," I replied, "you are a great criminal, but there
are some vile things you cannot do, and one of them is to denounce
me." " You come to save the King?" "Yes." We then began to talk in a
friendly and confidential way. "I am willing," said Danton, "to try
and save the King, but I must have a million to buy up the necessary
votes and the money must be on hand in eight days. I warn you that
although I may save his life I shall vote for his death; I am quite
willing to save his head but not to lose mine." M. de Lameth set
about raising the money; he saw the Spanish ambassador and had the
matter broached to Pitt who refused. Danton, as he said he would,
voted for the King's death, and then aided or allowed the return of M.
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