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"Why, how can you ask such a question? You are a republican."
"A republican! Yes; but that word specifies nothing. Res publica; that is, the public thing. Now, whoever is interested in public affairs -- no matter under what form of government -- may call himself a republican. Even kings are republicans."
Well! you are a democrat?"
"No."
"What! you would have a monarchy."
"No."
"A constitutionalist?"
"God forbid!"
"You are then an aristocrat?"
"Not at all."
"You want a mixed government?"
"Still less."
"What are you, then?"
"I am an anarchist."
"Oh! I understand you; you speak satirically. This is a hit at the government."
"By no means. I have just given you my serious and well-considered profession of faith. Although a firm friend of order, I am (in the full force of the term) an anarchist. Listen to me."