12 AUGUST 1876, Page 3

The French Chamber, indignant at the clerical influence to which

it ascribes its defeat on the University Bill, has avenged itself by rejecting the vote for regimental chaplains. It has not the power to abolish the chaplaincies, which were re-established by law, but it has decided to leave the poor priests nothing to eat. The absurdity of this course of action is beat shown by a reference to the Bretons in the service, among whom are some of the best soldiers in France. These men, as was shown during Chanzy's last efforts, become almost useless if sent into battle unconfessed. They will face the shot readily enough, but they are afraid if they die unabsolved they will have to face Satan. That is superstition, but it is not diminished by refusing them chaplains, while their courage is.