In spring 1848, when the first European revolutions had erupted, Heliade was attracted into cooperation with "Frăţia", a secret society founded by Nicolae Bălcescu, Ion Ghica, Christian Tell, and Alexandru G. Golescu, and sat on its leadership committee. He also collaborated with the reform-minded French teacher Jean Alexandre Vaillant, who was ultimately expelled after his activities were brought to the attention of authorities. On April 19, 1848, following financial setbacks, "Curierul Românesc" ceased printing (this prompted Heliade to write "Cântecul ursului", "The Bear's Song", a piece ridiculing his political enemies).