Under the quiet but vigorous Presidency of General Cavaignac, the
annals of France have lost their extraordinary piquancy. The most remarkable thing is the continued regrowth of more legitimate statesmanship—that which is informed by political knowledge and practical experience. M. Thiers is the embodi- ment of that reviving influence, and is regaining a manifest power. In a discussion with M. Proudhon, respecting the rights of labour, he came off victorious over that tremendous prophet, who declares that property and Christianity are wearing out to- gether, having but three centuries more to last I M. Thiers has also been successful, upon broad grounds of national expediency and good faith, in resisting the confiscation of the private pro- perty belonging to the Orleans family. Before these living facts, the new apologetic manifesto by M. de Lamartine reads like an antiquarian relic of the past. It is observed, that with the resto- ration of government the aspect of Paris has materially altered. The blouses which were rife in the streets have disappeared ; or if a few be seen, the wearers are engaged in some honest occupation. Even the soldiers have disappeared from view. Not that they are removed to a distance—quite the reverse ; but they are skilfully and judiciously disposed in forts and stations within and around Paris, so that they hold it effectively without offensive ostentation of military strength. Paris recognizing the presence of order, industry and trade begin to revive.
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