they may this night accomplish by its means!"

This man was Etienne Arago, brother of the great astronomer, and, for
sixteen years, celebrated as one of the boldest members of the
Republican party, as well as one of the bravest men in Paris.

"And the prefecture of police," observed another--"the present utter
derangement of all its functions may lead to most serious results.
Already those foes of freedom, Guizot and his colleagues, have been
suffered to secure their escape from the just indignation of an outraged
people. Delessert, the Prefect, has also fled!"

The man who said this was Marc Caussidiere, a well-known Republican.

"Citizens!" cried M. Gouache, "this state of things must continue no
longer. In the name of the people, I demand that Etienne Arago
immediately assume the charge of the post-office, as its director, and
that Marc Caussidiere fill the position of Prefect."

This demand was confirmed by acclamation, and committees for the
installation of the nominees into office at once accompanied them to
their respective departments.

The immense edifice of the post-office was surrounded by people, and its
numerous windows were flashing with lights. Within the utmost activity
seemed to prevail, and without couriers were leaving and arriving every
moment, and mail coaches were dashing up to discharge their burdens, or,
having received them, were dashing off.

"In the name of the people, entrance for Citizen Etienne Arago,
Republican director of the post-office!" shouted one of the committee.

Instantly a passage through the immense crowd in the courtyard was
cleared by the National Guard, and the director entered with his escort.

"In the name of the people, Citizen Dejean, you are dismissed," said
Etienne Arago, entering the private cabinet of the Director General.

"And who is to be my successor?" asked the astonished Count, rising to
his feet.

"In the name of the people, I am sent to displace and to succeed you,"
was the answer.

"But your commission, Monsieur?"

"Is here," pointing to the committee.

"Before I resign the direction of this department," said the Count after
some hesitation, "I must ask of you for some record of this act, bearing
your signature, to be deposited in the archives of the office."

"Certainly, Monsieur, your request is but reasonable," answered Arago,
seating himself in the official chair. And writing a few lines to which
he affixed his signature, he coolly handed