It is stated in Rome that the policy of the
Ex-Queen is to remain in France, and thence stir up a civil war by the cry of the Church in danger. Two provinces have already refused to expel the Jesuits, and the people seem by no means unanimous as to the effect of religious freedom. Should any party display a reaction- ary spirit, the aid of Napoleon in protecting the frontier from descents and importations of arms will be most valuable—one rea- son among many why the Directory are so anxious not to offend the Emperor of the French. It is said that as yet M. Mercier, the French Minister in Madrid, confines himself to pressing on the election of a King, and has signified that France will be very slow to recognize a Republic. The notion of active intervention is, however, repudiated by all parties in France.
