Auguste Blanqui 1833-34
Source: Oeuvres, Vol I. Textes rassemblés et presentés par Dominique Le Nuz. Presses universitaires de Nancy, 1993;
Translated: for marxists.org by Mitch Abidor;
CopyLeft: Creative Commons (Attribute & ShareAlike) marxists.org 2004.
Each fraction of the society is called a family.
The family is made up of five initiated, who meet twice a month under the presidency of a chief named by the center.
In order to be admitted one must be of age, have a good reputation and good conduct, justify one’s means of existence, and be gifted with great discretion.
Proposals for membership are made within the family, which discusses the merits of the candidate and can refuse or accept him.
The names, estate, and lodging of the candidate are immediately sent to the center so that scrupulous investigation can be made concerning the morality, sobriety, discretion and energy of the candidate.
No opening should be made before this information is addressed to the chief of the family.
If the opening is accepted the presenter turns over to the candidate a series of questions that he must answer prior to his reception.
Receptions are made blindfolded by the chief of the family, in the presence of the proposed member alone.
In so far as it is possible, they must take place during the day and, in any event, in the light.
The chief of the family must never forget to say to the recipient that no trace remains of what is done, that it is impossible for the police to discover anything, and that consequently no confession must ever be made in court, under penalty of passing for a traitor and being punished as such.
The recipient must be made to feel the importance of entering the National Guard.
Questions should be posed on arms and munitions.
The work is directed by the chief of the family who, at the opening of sessions, makes a report on what transpired at the previous session.
The work is terminated by proposals, presentations, and the collecting of dues.