Do the French of this Third Republic possess this unity, this firm and homogeneous will? or is it not proved by present facts that the French Republic in 1882 is simply another Tower of Babel? This we all can see and judge for ourselves. Let us pass on.
As a contrast, French History shows us how, in 1831, in the Lyons insurrection, the revolutionary party were disarmed by the Ministry of Périer. But the fact is, that in 1831 the King of France and his Ministers were a real Government, which governed, supported by the majority of the Chamber of Deputies, and the majority of the House of Peers; and that these were real and serious majorities, which knew the objects of their desires and of their efforts. These Deputies and these Peers were pre-eminently Frenchmen; in short, at that date, from the Throne to the cottage, France was herself and ruled herself At that date the adherents of the Monarchy were sets of unpaid unshaken, unseduced, unterrified men; to-day the followers of Democracy are servile majorities, ready to silence the minorities who denounce corruption, and dare enter a last and fearless protest. Reasoning that fails for the moment will tell, we trust, in the long run, because no living power has yet finally survived an honest cause undeservedly defeated. L'heure est à Dieu! "Events are in the saddle, and they ride mankind." Unexpected developments are sure to arise, and the probability is that well-known tenants of another man's property will be forced to rush away forgotten in utter obscurity. How only the last thirty-five years of French History " some pregnant truths convey " about plotters and betrayers! Plainly so weighty and comprehensive a History as that of France and of her Royal Family should shield a large minority from oppression, and it is a factor which will certainly influence largely the current of politics in the coming years. "Pais que dais; advienne que pourra!"
End.
Butler & Tanner, The Selwood Printing Works, Frome, and London.
