But, ah! I fear that the
number of these is very small, and that the golden days of the past
will never return! And is not your appearance here to-day a proof of
this? Did you not come here because the people insult and calumniate
me, and because you considered it needful to throw around me your
protection, which is now mightier than the royal purple and the
lilies of the throne of France?"
"Madame, time must be granted to the misguided people to return to
the right way," said Lafayette, almost with a supplicating air.
"They must be dealt with as we deal with defiant, naughty children,
which can be brought back to obedience and submission better by
gentle speech and apparent concession than by rigidity and severity.
On this account I ventured to ask your majesty to intrust me for a
little while with the care of your sacred person, and, in order that
I may satisfy my duty, that you would graciously appoint the time
when your majesty will take your walks here in the park and garden,
so that I can make my arrangements accordingly."
"In order to make a fence out of your National Guards, protected by
which the Queen of France may not become visible to the hate of the
people, and behind which she may be secure against the attacks of
her enemies!" cried Marie Antoinette. "No, sir, I cannot accept
this! It shall at least be seen that I am no coward, and that I will
not hide myself from those who come to attack me!"
"Your majesty," said Bailly, "I conjure you, do this out of
compassion for us, for all your faithful servants who tremble for
the peace and security of your majesty, and allow M.
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