The programme laid before the Chamber contained hints of a
very advanced policy. The Cabinet profess to expect the support of all sections of the Republican Party, and to be specially "impartial ;" but they promise "a forward march, a regular development of institutions," though "liberty which does not follow the paths of dictatorship cannot promise sudden transformations." Revision must come, but "a work of such importance destined to place our politi- cal organisation in complete harmony with Republican principles," can only be effected when the Government is ready and the moment is propitious. The Cabinet will produce a Bill on Associations as an "indispensable pre- liminary" to "definitely regulating the relations of Church and State," and so finishing "the work of secularisation begun by the French Revolution and again taken up by the Third Republic!' The Budget will be reformed by new liquor. duties, and duties on successions; and the Military Bills (abolishing all exemptions) will be passed through rapidly, though the Government "remains sincerely attached to peace" The programme was received in the Senate in almost total silence, and in the Chamber with silence by the Royalists, and by the Opportunists with derisive laughter. Only the Radicals and Extremists applauded with any heart.
