declined marching the military, until be had the express consent and order
of the National Assembly. And on his arrival, he immediately joined with
the king's body guard, in suppressing the riotous proceedings of the
promiscuous multitude, who had previously reached the place, and were
committing depredations even in the royal palace. This was a scene of great
confusion and alarm; and violence and bloodshed ensued. The enemies of
Lafayette pretended, that he might have prevented the mischief, by timely
and decisive measures. But impartial witnesses testified, "that, from the
first moment of the alarm, he had even exceeded his usual activity." He
appeared in every quarter. "Gentlemen," said he to the Parisian soldiers,
"I have pledged my word and honor to the King, that nothing belonging to
him shall receive injury. If I break my word, I shall no longer be worthy
of being your commander." The people insisted, that the King should go to
Paris; and on consulting with the Marquis, who gave assurances of
protection and respect, he proceeded to the city, accompanied by his
family, and was received with great acclamations of _vive Le Roi_.

Lafayette still retained his great popularity and influence. The Court
party had perfect confidence in his integrity and honor, though they did
not approve of his revolutionary principles. And the friends of the
constitution found in him one of their most zealous and able supporters.
These, however, soon become divided into clubs and parties; some of whom
were aiming at more power for the representatives of the people, and for
divesting Louis of every thing but the name of King. To this description of
politicians, Lafayette, and others who constituted the majority of the
National Assembly at this time, were opposed. They considered the King as
still the fountain of all executive authority, and were willing that he
should also have a _veto_ upon their legislative proceedings--His
person, they declared, was inviolable, and his crown hereditary. Put the
more violent revolutionists, who soon became known by the distinctive