Page:Works of Heinrich Heine 07.djvu/21

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THE CITIZEN KINGDOM
IN THE YEAR 1832.


PREFACE TO THE PREFACE.

"Vive la France! quand même . . ."

I learn that the preface to the "French Affairs" has appeared in such a mutilated state that duty compels me to republish it in its original form. And as I now here give an especial edition, I beg that no one will attribute to me an intention of in any way annoying or blaming the present rulers in Germany. I have much rather sought to moderate my expressions. I was, in consequence, not a little astonished when I observed that the preface in question was regarded as too harsh. Great God! what would it have been had I given way to my feelings and spoken out from my heart in full freedom? And it may come to pass! The evil reports which come in sighs to us every day from over the Rhine may well inspire me to it.