The burgher class controlled the government, not only of the cities, but often of the provinces, through its influence in the estates.

Industry and wealth had produced their natural results.

The supreme authority of the sovereign and the power of the nobles were balanced by the municipal principle which had even begun to preponderate over both.

All three exercised a constant and salutary check upon each other.

Commerce had converted slaves into freemen, freemen into burghers, and the burghers were acquiring daily, a larger practical hold upon the government.