The things we do!

The commandant of the province writes in vain to the mayor to
reassure him, and to explain to him that "the municipality, being
master of the chateau, is likewise master of its magazine. Why then
should it entertain fear about that which is in its own possession?
Why should any surprise be manifested at an arsenal containing arms
and gunpowder? " - Nothing is of any effect. The chateau is
invaded; two hundred workmen set to work to demolish the
fortifications; they listen only to their fears, and cannot exercise
too great precaution. However inoffensive the citadels may be, they
are held to be dangerous; however accommodating the commanders may
be, they are regarded with suspicion. The people chafe against the
bridle, relaxed and slack as it is. It is broken and cast aside,
that it may not be used again when occasion requires. Each
municipal body, each company of the National Guard, wants to reign
on its own plot of ground out of the way of any foreign control; and
this is what is called liberty.


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