Some of the writers, a few of those partially daring enough to give an impartial _expose_ of the history of the Bonapartean times, seem to think that Napoleon committed a great error in his accession to the throne, by doubting the stability of his reign, and having pursued exactly measures antipodean to those necessary to seat him firmly in the hearts of the people, and cement the foundation of his newly-acquired power. But we don't think so; the means by which he obtained the giddy height, to a comprehensive mind like his, at once suggested the necessity of vigilance, promptness, and unflinching execution of whatever act, however tyrannous or heartless it might have been, his unsleeping mind suggested-- "Crowns got with blood, by blood must be maintained." Jealous and suspicious, he sought to shackle public opinion--the fearful hydra to all ambitious aspirants--to know all _secrets_ of the time and states, and render one half of the great nations he held in his grasp spies upon the other! The most profligate principles of Machiavel sink into obscurity when contrasted with the Imperial _Espionage_ of Napoleon. When no longer moving squadrons in the tented field--whole armies, like so many pieces of chess in the hands of a dexterous player--he sat upon his throne, reclined upon his lounge or smoked in his bath, organized and moved the most difficult and dangerous forces in the world--_an army of Spies!_ All ages, from that of infancy to decrepitude--all conditions of life, from peer to parvenu--from plough to the anvil--pulpit to the bar--orators and beggars, soldiers and sailors, male and female of every grade--men of the most insinuating address, and women of the most seductive ages and loveliness, grace and beauty were enlisted and trained to serve--in what the pot-bellied, bald-headed little monster of war used to call his _Cytherian Cohort!_ Snares set by these imperial policemen were difficult to avoid, from the almost utter impossibility of suspicioning their presence or power.