Page:Readings in European History Vol 2.djvu/484

 446 Readings in European History 412. The debate during the first session of the Convention. Louis XVI had been suspended August 10 on account of the misgivings which his conduct inspired. The de- bate carried on six weeks later, during the opening session of the Convention, September 21, 1792, well illustrates the attitude of the new Assembly toward the ancient monarchy and serves to introduce some of the men who were soon to be most active during the Reign of Terror. The citizens chosen by the French people to form the National Convention having assembled to the number of three hundred and seventy one, and having examined the credentials of the members, declare that the National Con- vention is organized. . . . M. Manuel. Representatives of the sovereign people : the task which devolves upon you demands the power and wis- dom of gods themselves. When Cineas entered the Roman senate he thought he beheld an assembly of kings. Such a comparison would be an insult to you. Here we see an assembly of philosophers occupied in preparing the way for the happiness of the world. I move that the president of France have his residence in the national palace, that the symbols of law and power be always at his side, and that every time that he opens a session all the citizens shall rise. This act of homage to the sovereignty of the people will con- stantly recall to us our rights and duties. M. Simon. I move that the Assembly declare that they will never deliberate except in the presence of the people. The President. Your motion, having no relation to the previous motion, I cannot give the floor to those who wish to support or oppose your proposition until the Assembly has passed upon the motion of Monsieur Manuel. M. Mathieu. I am doubtful whether the discussion sug- gested by Monsieur Manuel should take precedence in our deliberations. Our predecessors lost much time in determin- ing the exact dimensions of the chair of the former king. We do not wish to commit the same error. . ..