4 JULY 1863, Page 2

The Emperor of the French has addressed a letter to

M. Rotther, complaining of over-centralization. He says that mere communal matters of secondary importance require references to eleven authorities, and an investigation some- times lasting two years. He, therefore, directs the Council of State to draw up a list of all the forms which a question must go through, and suggest how many may be suppressed. The Emperor's object, it is evident, is not to restore commu- nal self government, but to make the action of the authorities swifter and less cumbrous. What France wants is to be let alone ; what he suggests is a removal of wheels between him- self and the people. The mill is to be simpler and, therefore, quicker, but not by any means, therefore, weaker.