When the general ceased there was silence--that eloquent, solemn
silence which accompanies those moments in which the Genius of
History hovers over the heads of men, and, touching them with its
pinions, ties their tongues and opens the eyes of the spirit, so
that they can look into the future, and, with presaging horror, read
all the secrets of coming time as by a flash of lightning.
Such a critical moment in history was that in which Lafayette, at
the feet of the dauphin, swore eternal fidelity to the monarchy of
France in the presence of the unfortunate mayor of Paris, who was
soon to seal his loyalty with his own blood, and in presence of the
queen, whose lofty character was soon to make her a martyr.
The moments passed by, then Marie Antoinette bowed to Lafayette with
her gracious smile.
"Rise, general," she said, in gentle tones, "God has heard your
oath, and I accept it in the name of the French monarchy, my
husband, my son, and myself. I shall always continue mindful of it,
and I hope that you will also. And I beg you, too," she continued,
in a low voice, and with a deep flush upon her face, "I beg you to
forgive me if I have hitherto cast unworthy reproaches upon you. I
have lived through so many sad and dreadful days, that it will be
set down to my favor if my nerves are agitated and easily excited.
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