These writers only reason upon what they think correct general principles in relation to this subject. They acknowledge a want of experience. Here we have had the experience; and we know that a multitude of small proprietors, acting with intelligence, and that enthusiasm which a common cause inspires, constitute not only a formidable, but an invincible power.” Just fifty years from the date of Mr. Webster’s prophecy the present republic was set up,--the government not having changed the law, the law changed the government. It is this race of peasant proprietors that has given France her wonderful recuperative power, enabling her to emerge again and again _per varios casus, per tot discrimina rerum_. From them her national life receives a vigor and unity which no reverses seem to dominate and no blunders to ruin. Upon them she must rely for the maintenance of her liberties, so gloriously conquered in the past and embodied in her present institutions. If men have but some share of comfort and property in the country, they will abide there, for that is really the place provided for them. “Towns, the haunt of pride, luxury, and inequality, foster the spirit of revolt: the country begets calm and concord, the spirit of order and tradition.” Under the old Roman system the city was the important unit; under the Teutonic element the land was brought into prominence and the possessor of it into power. The dominant member of society was the landowner and not the citizen. In ancient society the “citizen” need own no land; in the modern society of the feudal age the “gentleman” could not be such without owning land. CHAPTER XII. MILITARY SERVICE AND ORGANIZATION.