I have made my letter of a most unpardonable length, and yet my subject is not complete. I will, however, stop for the present, only requesting your permission, when I have the opportunity, of adding such details, as I may be able to collect, relative to the different societies I have mentioned. Before I conclude, I ought, perhaps, to mention, that the generals are seen both in the second and third classes, but rarely in the first. Subalterns do not mix in society, at least, I have not yet met one in company. Adieu. LETTER V. Opening of the legislative body.—Election of the president.—Lord Cornwallis.—Reflections of the people in the gallery. Paris, november the 23d, 1801 (2 frimaire). MY DEAR SIR, Yesterday being the first of “frimaire,” the day on which, by the present constitution, the legislature and tribunate begin their session, I determined to attend the opening of the former. As I was not acquainted with any of the members, I was obliged, by means of a _silver ticket_, to seek admittance in one of the galleries devoted to the public. The legislative body holds its sittings in the beautiful palace, now called by its name, but better known by its former one, of _Palais Bourbon_. It is situate in the _Fauxbourg St. Germain_, immediately fronting _le pont Louis XVI_, and opposite the _Champs Elisées_. The hall, in which the members assemble, is a very fine room, in which the council of five hundred sat during the directorial government. It is large, of an octagon shape, and would be admirably suited to the purpose, for which it is used, did not its extreme height and arched roof prevent even the strongest voice from being distinctly heard. To remedy this defect, green baize is suspended on several parts of the wall; but the evil is but little removed by this precaution. The first thing which attracted my attention, was the military parade, in which the members entered the room, and the regimental _costume_, in which they were dressed. Drums and fifes announced their approach; and a guard of honour (for both the corps législatif and the tribunate have each a regiment) preceded them. The members wear a uniform of blue cloth, embroidered with gold, a tricoloured sash, hussar boots, and a cocked hat, both laced with gold. To an english eye, they had more the appearance of naval officers than of legislators. The meeting was opened by the minister of the _interieur_, who ascending the tribune (or rostrum,) congratulated in a short speech, the corps législatif on commencing its session, at a moment when the restoration of peace with all the world confirmed the victories, and completed the happiness of the republic. The eldest member then took the chair, and declared the meeting legally constituted. They next proceeded to choose a president. Scrutineers were appointed to examine the votes, which were given in the