The cloth being removed and wine set on the table, after the American manner, the Marquis introduced the objects of the conference by summarily reminding them of the state of things in the Assembly, the course which the principles of the constitution were taking, and the inevitable result, unless checked by more concord among the Patriots themselves. He observed that altho’ he also had his opinion, he was ready to sacrifice it to that of his brethren of the same cause: but that a common opinion must now be formed, or the Aristocracy would carry everything, and that whatever they should now agree on, he, at the head of the National force, would maintain.
Autobiography, 1821
Patrick Lee’s Explanation
This is what servant leadership looks like.
Yesterday’s post showed how the Marquis de Lafayette, with Jefferson’s help, set the stage for a pivotal meeting among rivals and what positioned them for a productive outcome.
Now, the eight French patriots have gathered. Look what happened:
1. Jefferson dined them (very well, no doubt!). Conviviality established. Hunger banished.
2. The table was cleared and a workspace created.
3. Wine, but no hard drink, was set upon the table.
(Never underestimate the moderate use of alcohol to lubricate a meeting.)
4. Lafayette, the leader, summarized the situation before them
– The legislative debate on a constitution was headed in the wrong direction.
– An unpleasant result was inevitable if these men could not reach some agreement.
5. Lafayette volunteered to compromise his own position.
– He would sacrifice his views to those of the group.
– Whatever they all agreed upon, he would take that cause to the nation.
