National Convention

Then read the letter from the defenders of the King, not provides further arguments. The result of counting of votes is known. It is Vergniaud which is responsible for notifying the decision: "The absolute majority is 361 votes in favor of the absent members and those declared disabled. 366 voted for death!" I declare, therefore, on behalf of the National Convention that the penalty taken by it against Louis Capet is death. " Louis, is convicted, thus, by a majority of just five votes, which means that very likely, if the vote has been done in other circumstances, Luis had been sentenced to the maximum penalty of banishment.

Luis advocates are then allowed to express their opinions. Sze reads a statement written by Luis at Temple and is dated January 16: "I owe to my family and my honor to enter into a trial blames me a crime that I have to reproach myself. Therefore I appeal to declare the nation itself the decision of their representatives. " Sze takes up the floor to confirm what is said in the letter and remind the Assembly that it is their duty to discuss and not dismiss the appeal of the convicted person as required by the natural law, especially when the decision was adopted by a majority so weak. Tronchet, another supporter of Louis, said that in professional conviction requires a two thirds majority. Malesherbes, also tries to speak to defend Luis. Trembles with emotion, his voice fails. It ends by asking to be let speak the next day to make some observations.