If for that of the emigrants, was it not we who voted the enactment of those rigorous measures which justice demanded? . . . Some men make patriotism consist in tormenting others, in causing the shedding of tears. I desired that men should be rendered happy by it. I did not think that, like those priests and inquisitors who only speak of their God of mercy at the stake, we should speak of liberty in the midst of dangers and executioners. . . . They believe in consolidating the Revolution by terror; I was fain to see her consolidated by love."
Madame Roland's letter to Servan shows how perilous their position was already by the end of 1792, the first year of the Republic. Champagneux describes the continual harassing anxieties of his friend during these last months of her husband's ministry. Every day brought fresh attacks, and every night warnings of intended assassinations. The leading Girondins constantly sought refuge in the house of friends; Madame Roland alone scorned all precautions. Braver than the bravest, if die she must she would die at her post. Once, at her friends' entreaties, she had almost consented to leave the exposed situation at her official dwelling; and, some disguise being required, she assumed the dress of a peasant woman; but the bystanders objecting to her head-gear as not clumsy enough, she snatched it from her head, flung it away, and declared she would not proceed with this unworthy masquerade. "I am ashamed," cried she, "at the part you wish me to play; I will neither disguise myself nor go hence. If they wish to assassinate me, let it be at my own home. I ought to set this example of firmness, and I will."
From this day till Roland tendered his resignation
