La Chute (The Fall)

Nights of the 19th July 1792, 9th and 10th August 1792

Historical Events: The King uses his veto to stop the Assembly passing two decrees outlawing the emigrés and priests who refuse to swear allegiance to the Revolution. The emigrés continue to make pacts with foreign powers to invade France. In the face of events the Assembly is more disunited than ever.

On the evening of 19th July 1792, The Owl is unwittingly involved in a mysterious incident. A woman appears from the Louvre palace and thrusts a newborn baby into his arms. No sooner has this happened than a strange man appears and snatches it away. The Owl is confused.

At Merigot's bookshop, Restif gives an eye-witness account of how a people's delegation requested the King to allow decrees to be passed against the emigrés and recalcitrant priests. The crowd of commoners seemed almost awestruck when they at last saw the King for the first time. He was made to put on the red cap of the Revolution, but was unharmed. However, he refused to lift his vetos.

At a local tavern, the butchers are celebrating and they sing a ribald tune called 'The Turnip Song'. In exchange, Restif recites one of his poems and, while he does so, the ragged hurdy-gurdy player steals his purse. Restif pursues him to retrieve his property - but, humane as ever, gives the thief ten sous.