Page:The Prince.djvu/66

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INTRODUCTION.
xlvii

that the people can scarcely perceive the change, although the new constitution is essentially different from the old one; for mankind in general are as satisfied with appearance as reality; nay, often they are more struck, or more highly pleased with appearances than the reality itself."—Reflect. on Livy, ch. 25.

This is Buonaparte's system of external policy; but when we contemplate the internal policy of the empire, as effected by him, we shall find that he has greatly improved on his model; but, in order to display this in a stronger light, we will give a portrait of the French people, as drawn by our author, in which the general character of the nation is admirably sketched.

    all those who are afraid, cease to be so; let those who have fled return to their homes; let prayer take place to-day as usual, and which I wish should always continue. Fear nothing, for your houses, your property, your wives, and above all, your religion, which I love."—Buonaparte's Proclamation on entering Cairo.