France - are nothing better than harpies. Most of these pretended devotees
of imperialism have, speaking figuratively, their portmanteaus perpetually
packed, ready for flight. The Emperor's good nature, as regards his
entourage, has never allowed him to get rid of men who, perhaps, ought
not to be seen so near the Imperial throne of France. The weakest feature
of Napoleon III.'s Government is the conspicuous presence of a few persons
in high places, whose cupidity is so extravagant that, in order to gratify
their lust of wealth, they would not hesitate, indirectly at least,
to risk a slur on the reputation of their master and benefactor, in
order to gain their own ends.


THE SALON DES ETRANGERS IN PARIS


When the allies entered Paris, after the Battle of Waterloo, the English
gentlemen sought, instinctively, something like a club. Paris, however,
possessed nothing of the sort; but there was a much more
dangerous establishment than the London clubs, namely, a rendezvous
for confirmed gamblers. The Salon des Etrangers was most gorgeously
furnished, provided with an excellent kitchen and wines, and was conducted
by the celebrated Marquis de Livry, who received the guests and did
the honours with a courtesy which made him famous throughout Europe.
The Marquis presented an extraordinary likeness to the Prince Regent
of England, who actually sent Lord Fife over to Paris to ascertain this
momentous fact. The play which took place in these saloons was frequently
of the most reckless character; large fortunes were often lost, the
losers disappearing, never more to be heard of. Amongst the English
habitues were the Hon. George T--, the late Henry Baring, Lord Thanet,
Tom Sowerby, Cuthbert, Mr. Steer, Henry Broadwood, and Bob Arnold.