to do with a party which preaches emancipation, equality, the rights of man, and contempt for the traditional hierarchy.
The reaction which occurred in 1820, at the time of the assassination of the Duc de Berri, seemed to scatter the last remnants of the fitful wisdom of the Left. La Fayette was then heard to declare solemnly to the Tribune that he considered himself " released " from his oath. Released from his oath, because the King, in accordance with the Constitution, had yielded to the will of the Chamber in replacing his moderate Ministry by one more distinctly Royalist ! What could be more insane ? This appeal to revolt, absurd and unjustifiable as it was, had a widespread effect. It was followed by others specially addressed to the young students in the University ; as for the Army, it was openly invited to join the conspiracy. There had been some plotting already, but this was a serious affair. It was denounced to the Government. Inquiry revealed the existence of three secret committees, one of which, led by the Duc de Rovigo, had in view the proclamation of Napoleon II. and the regency of Prince Eugène ; the two others, under the
