If this project of theirs succeeds, a
combination between the two Houses of Clergy and Nobles will render the
representation of the _Tiers Etat_ merely nugatory. The bureaux are to
assemble together, to consolidate their separate votes: but I see no
reasonable hope of their changing this. Perhaps the King, knowing that
he may count on the support of the nation, and attach it more closely to
him, may take on himself to disregard the opinion of the _Notables_ in
this instance, and may call an equal representation of the people, in
which precedents will support him. In every event, I think the present
disquiet will end well. The nation has been awaked by our Revolution;
they feel their strength, they are enlightened, their lights are
spreading, and they will not retrograde. The first States General may
establish three important points, without opposition from the court; 1.
their own periodical convocation; 2. their exclusive right of taxation
(which has been confessed by the King); 3. the right of registering
laws, and of previously proposing amendments to them, as the parliaments
have, by usurpation, been in the habit of doing.
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