A Joke?

The idea of a monarchy is still alive in France. We must break up all lines, organize for combat and agree on measures to be taken. Arm yourselves seriously and remain calmly silent so as to be able to strike energetically when the time comes. France will never be a great and strong nation again until she is protected by the heavy sword of a legitimate king. A legitimate descendant of the House of Capet is behind you and twill prepare the way for a triumphant return of the Kings of France and Navarre.

This poster was placarded throughout Paris, appealing to voters to tear up their ballots and to the Orleanists to desert Philippe, Due d'Orleans, and rally to the standard of Louis, Prince de Bourbon, grandson of Louis XVII.

The police made no effort to interfere with the posters, which attracted large crowds and provoked the comment that a change might be a good thing. But no one could answer the question : Who is this Louis?

It seems hard to think that Paris, home of revolution though it is, will think seriously about the proclamation of an unknown and unheard of prince. Yet, the Royalist element has been considerably strengthened of late years and if the partisans of the Bourbon, Orleans and Bonaparte causes were to unite (which seems impossible), a situation might arise under the guise of Fascism that would be a distinct political menace to the Republic. On the face of it, it looks more like a practical joke than anything else.