The Military Institutions of France. By H.R.H. the Duo D'Aumale.
Translated by Captain Ashe. (Chapman and Hall.)—This is an histori- cal sketch worthy of the distinguished name which it bears, leaving on the reader's mind that distinct impression which is one of the best proofs of a writers power. One might read through many a ponderous volume of French history without getting anything like the clear vie w of this side of the national life that the Duke's hundred and eighty loosely printed pages supply. It is indeed a singularly distinct picture of the French Army as a continuous existence modified in its conditions by the action of successive governments. The author is always impartial, does justice to merit wherever he finds it, and is often very acute,—as, for instance, when he discusses the influences which brought about the decline of the glories of Louis XIV.—in detecting the connection of cause and effect. Above all, he never ceases for a moment to be loyal to France. When we think of how his country has dealt with him and his, there is something eminently pathetic in the constancy of his devotion.
Previous page
