During the loans so frequently mentioned, it was curious to witness the bidders arising at early dawn; waiting from two until ten in the morning, and then see them rush, with all the eager impetuosity of gain, to grasp a share of the proffered good. When it became known that, on the 12th of May, 1789, an insurrection had broken out at Paris, it was but little imagined that its effects would press upon the resources of England for ever, increase her taxation, and embarrass her councils; and as news came from time to time of the excesses of the mob, the destruction of the Bastille, and the murder of the monarch, it was received in accordance with the political principles of the listener. The first effect of the revolution shook the state to its foundation. A strong democratic tendency passed through Europe, and England shared the peril. A feeling of public wrong was prevalent. A fierce movement convulsed the populace. Debating societies were established, and the misgovernment of the nation was exposed. The public-houses were filled with orators, and the cry for reform was incessant. The press teemed with warnings and appeals. Societies corresponding with the Jacobin clubs of Paris were established. Some of the first men in England welcomed the revolution with enthusiasm, while the masses hailed it with delight. The Convention was congratulated; and it is surprising that, with democratic principles, a democratic spirit, and a numerous array of men of rank on the popular side, England should have preserved her constitution. William Pitt, the minister of the day, took a bold and determined position. “It is not reform they want,” he said, “it is revolution. They wish to react the troubles of France; to murder the king; and establish a republic.” The people petitioned, and were neglected. They agitated, and were punished. The youth of England clamored for more freedom; and revolutionary principles spread far and wide. Persons of rank and property were alarmed, and formed associations against anarchists and levellers. Parliament was summoned before its time; the Alien Bill was passed; the naval and military forces were augmented; and when the French Convention declared they would assist the disaffected subjects of all monarchical governments, the English ministry demanded a disavowal. The demand was refused; the French ambassador was ordered to leave the kingdom; and, in 1793, the war which added so terribly to England’s encumbrances was declared.