Page:The Rise and Fall on the Paris Commune in 1871.djvu/262

 "The abandonment of the fort of Issy, announced in an impious placard by the wretch who delivered it, was only the first act in the drama. A monarchical insurrection inside, coincident with the delivery of one of our gates, was to follow and plunge us into an abyss. But this time again victory remained with right, and all the threads of this sinister plot are at present in our hands, and most of the guilty parties in custody.

"If their crime has been frightful, their punishment will be exemplary. The court-martial will sit in permanence, and justice will be done.

"—The Revolution cannot and will not be conquered. But it is necessary to show to monarchism that the Commune is prepared for every emergency, rather than see the red flag crushed in its hands. It is necessary that the people should well know that upon the Commune, and it alone, and upon its energy and its vigilance, definite success depends.

"That which the reaction attempted yesterday it will attempt again to-morrow.

"All eyes must watch its actions.

"All arms must be ready to strike the traitors without pity. All the living force of the Revolution must group together for a supreme effort. Then, and then only, will triumph be assured.

"Ant. Arnaud, E. Eudes, F. Gambon, G. Ranvier—The Committee of Public Safety."

There were only four names to this document, Delescluze having been appointed Delegate of War.

Delescluze issued a proclamation addressed to the National Guard, announcing his appointment as Delegate of War. He declared the situation to be extremely grave, and that if he consulted his own strength he would decline