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[Anonymous Démocrate-Socialiste Leader of Second French Republic] Marvelous and irresistible power of ideas! In spite of the prefects, the procureurs, the policemen and the spies; in spite of the oppressive legislation, the trials, the state of siege and the bayonets, in spite of all, democracy is in full spate like one of those great floods furnished by the hand of God, of which no human will is able to halt the course....