If we now consider the same subject independently of individual interest
and instead deal with it on the basis of the principles that are intended
to throw the most light on it, namely, those that form the science
of the social order, or social science, the question begins to look quite
different. I maintain that it is not possible to accept either the demand of
the Third Estate or its rejection by the privileged orders without overturning
the most obvious notions. I certainly do not mean to accuse the
What is the Third Estate? 115
loyal boroughs (bonne villes) of the kingdom of having had any such intention.
Their aim was to get nearer to attaining to their rights by calling
for at least a balance between the two influences. They have, moreover,
set out some excellent truths, because it is certain that a veto by one order
over the others is a right that is able to paralyze everything in a country
in which interests are so opposed. It is equally certain that by not voting
by head, it will not be possible to identify a genuine majority and that this
will be the greatest of all drawbacks, because the law, at root, will be null.
These truths are absolutely indisputable. But could the three orders as
now constituted join together to vote by head? This is the real question.
The answer to it has to be no. In the light of true principle, they cannot
vote in common; they cannot vote either by head or by order. Whatever
the proportion adopted between them, it will not be able to meet the required
objective, which is to bind and engage the totality of representatives
by one common will. This assertion undoubtedly needs explanation
and proof. I propose to reserve these for the sixth chapter. I have no wish
to offend those disposed towards moderation who are always inclined to
be afraid that the truth will come out at the wrong moment. But first it is
necessary to make them see that the present state of affairs has come
about solely through the fault of the privileged orders, that it is time to
choose, and time to say what is true and just in all its force.