The speech is unusual from the heartiness with which it
approves the Republic and the absence of any military allusions. After a graceful allusion to the fact that he had himself been a Mayor, the President marked the national character of the gathering, and its assurance of renewed co-operation in the work of pacification and progress "which the will of the representatives of the people has confided to us." He extolled the Revolution, and though admitting that some of its institutions might be modified, asserted that the Republic was unassailable. Its "principles are the glory and the honour of France." Their duty was to realise them more every day. "We remain faithful to the spirit of the Revolution because our patriotism is equal to our love for the Republic," and "we will accomplish to the end our mandate without hesitation or weakness." This Ministry of M. Waldeck-Rousseau has turned out a strong one, though General de Galliffet has resigned, audit may perhaps enjoy an unexpected duration. It is certainly the best France has had for many years.
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