One never anticipated the scale of it," Brissot whispered. "It was planned, yes, and people were paid-but not ten thousand people. Not even the Duke could pay ten thousand people. They acted for themselves." "And that upsets your plans?" "They have to be directed." Brissot shook his head. "We don't want anarchy.
In Hilary Mantel's "A Place of Greater Safety," Brissot reflects on the unexpected size and spontaneity of a movement. While he acknowledges that it was organized and individuals were incentivized, he expresses disbelief that such a large scale of participation could be orchestrated by any single figure, including the Duke. This suggests a profound concern over the implications of widespread, self-motivated action among the populace.
Brissot's worries highlight a fear of losing control over the situation, indicating a desire to prevent chaos and anarchy. His insistence that the movement must be directed reveals a tension between revolutionary fervor and the need for structure. In this context, he seeks to channel the people's energy in a way that aligns with his vision, rather than allowing it to spiral into disorder.
