The new French Ministry on Tuesday read a " declaration
" of
policy to both Chambers. They commence by declaring that the Republican Government "already founded" has been " com- pleted " by the elections, and that "as power cannot have a higher origin in human society, never was Government more legitimately established." Revision ought not to be attempted until existing institutions have had an honest trial ; the "greatness and the future of the country depend upon the loyal practice of the Constitutional laws ;" the Ministry will insist upon fidelity from their subordinates, and they will tell them that "the Republic, more than any other form of government, needs to repose upon the sacred laws of religion, morality, and family rights." The Ministry state that the Budget can be balanced without fresh taxes ; that they shall persevere in the "wise policy" of Free-trade ; that they will introduce Bills with regard to the University and the compo- sition of the municipalities ; and finally, that they "will abstain from those warlike adventures in which Governments have been too frequently engaged." This declaration, the importance of which is explained elsewhere, gives general satisfaction ; but M. Gambetta is either not content or thinks it not prudent to appear so, and announces in the Republique Frangaise that he waits to see what the Ministry will do. This is, we hope, only the usual " attitude of Liberals,, towards an Old-Whig Ministry, such as is now ruling in France. The dividing question will probably be primary education, but' itmay be the civil status of the Church.
