The Major in particular warned
them of the necessity of drill; and plainly told them also that, not
only were the middle classes all against them, but their own class
was hostile. This was perfectly true, although it was a truth so
unpleasant that he had to endure some very strong language, and even
hints of treason. No wonder: for it is undoubtedly very bitter to
be obliged to believe that the men whom we want to help do not
themselves wish to be helped. To work hard for those who will thank
us, to head a majority against oppressors, is a brave thing; but far
more honour is due to the Maitlands, Caillauds, Colemans, and others
of that stamp who strove for thirty years from the outbreak of the
French revolution onwards, not merely to rend the chains of the
prisoners, but had to achieve the more difficult task of convincing
them that they would be happier if they were free. These heroes are
forgotten, or nearly so. Who remembers the poor creatures who met in
the early mornings on the Lancashire moors or were shot by the
yeomanry? They sleep in graves over which stands no tombstone, or
probably their bodies have been carted away to make room for a
railway which has been driven through their resting-place.
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