In vain did the words country, liberty, and constitution, recur in every discourse, and in every proclamation.
In vain was it solemnly promised, that France, as soon as it was delivered, should receive all the securities claimed by the public voice, and that the press should recover perfect freedom.
In vain was the lustre and the prerogative, of which the legion of honour had been despoiled, offered to be restored to it.
In vain were pompous eulogies and brilliant promises lavished on the army.
The time was past.
The minister had robbed the King of confidence, which is the prime agent of the ascendancy of princes over the people; and of strength, which can alone supply the place of confidence, and command fear and obedience.
The approach of Napoleon;
The desertion of Marshal Ney;
The declaration made by those generals, who still retained their fidelity, that the troops would not fight against the Emperor, left the government no doubt of the fate that awaited it.
From that moment there was no longer harmony in their designs, or concert in the means of executing them.