of the old constitution of the United States, with some modifications and changes favourable to the popular cause, as the perpetual abolition of the stadtholderate and hereditary nobility, and an extension of the right of suffrage. But the influence of France, too weighty to be resisted, and the love of innovation, too ardent for sober reflection, prevailed over these sentiments. The venerable state edifice of the Seven Confederated Provinces of Belgium was overthrown, and a Gallic structure, airy, light, and unsubstantial, was erected in its place. The weakness and crimes of the French directory, facilitating the enlightened views of the great man who, happily for Europe, at present guides the destinies of France, proved its overthrow; and the Batavian government, its offspring, is verging fast, through imbecility, to dissolution. May it quietly expire!
On the establishment of a directorial government in Holland, many virtuous and enlightened patriots, disgusted at the new system of things, and not being able, under
