“In principle, yes, I am. The Republic is, in my opinion, the only rational form of government, the only one worthy of the nations. The universal Republic is inevitable in the natural course of progress. But has its hour struck in France? It is because I want the Republic that I want it to be durable and definitive. You are going to consult the nation, are you not?—the whole nation?”
“The whole nation, assuredly. We of the Provisional Government are all for universal suffrage.”
At this moment Arago came up to us with M. Armand Marrast, who held a folded paper in his hand.
“My dear friend,” said Lamartine, “know that this morning we selected you for Mayor of your arrondissement.”
“And here is the patent signed by us all,” said Armand Marrast.
“I thank you,” said I, “but I cannot accept it.”
“Why?” continued Arago. “These are non-political and purely gratuitous functions.”
“We were informed just now about the attempted revolt at La Force,” added Lamartine. “You did better than suppress it, you forestalled it. You are loved and respected in your arrondissement.”
“My authority is wholly moral,” I rejoined; “it could but lose weight in becoming official. Besides, on no account would I dispossess M. Ernest Moreau, who has borne himself loyally and valiantly throughout this trouble.”
Lamartine and Arago insisted: “Do not refuse our brevet.”