REPUBLICAN FRANCE, 1870-1912.
Republican France, 1870-1912. By Le Petit Homme Rouge. (Holden and Hardingliam. 12s. 6d.)—In spite of storms and scandals—and at no time have these been lacking—the Third Republic may fairly claim to have realized the pronouncement of Thiers, quoted by Mr. Vizetelly on his title-page, that it was the form of government "qui nous divise le moins." Each succeeding trial has served merely to prove its ever-increased stability. Always abused, often ridiculous, the Republic has weathered its way to a permanence conceivable only in a country where abuse and ridicule are the signs, if not the secret, of popularity. France, indeed, owes it too much to be anything but grateful. Its brilliant rallying of the nation at the start, its forty years of sound if not glorious prosperity, have welded ties that can never be undone. Mr. Vizetelly's review of its achievements is encyclopaedic in its thoroughness, and gives lively pictures of the parties and personalities whose interplay has shaped the country's history during this period.
Previous page
