They rallied some partisans thanks to their hypocrisy. They have lost them all; the masks are coming off.

Frédéric Bastiat
Complete Works, Volume 7, pages 420 to 423 (in French)
May 17th, 1848

I skip the first three letters to Mrs. Julie Schwabe, which are very short and essentially thank you letters. The one dated May 17th is pertaining to the demonstration of 15 May 1848.

Today’s quote is referring to the socialists led by Louis Blanc. Frédéric Bastiat understands that the demonstrations could have ended as a coup or a revolution but sees the bright side of it with the hindsight. Given the fact that the government response has allowed to save the republic and democracy, the defeat of the rioters creates the benefit of allowing the masks to come off.

However, it is important to note that such a satisfaction is limited to the revelation of lies and that Frédéric Bastiat will not use his political advantage beyond what is legitimate. Later, he will vote against the suspension of Louis Blanc’s parliamentary immunity as he will explain in his letter to Félix Coudroy dated September 7th, 1848.