It is impossible to imagine a more completely central government than that which existed in France under Louis XIV.; when the same individual was the author and the interpreter of the laws, and the representative of France at home and abroad, he was justified in asserting that the State was identified with his person.

Nevertheless, the administration was much less centralized under Louis XIV.

than it is at the present day.
In England the centralization of the government is carried to great perfection; the State has the compact vigor of a man, and by the sole act of its will it puts immense engines in motion, and wields or collects the efforts of its authority.

Indeed, I cannot conceive that a nation can enjoy a secure or prosperous existence without a powerful centralization of government.

But I am of opinion that a central administration enervates the nations in which it exists by incessantly diminishing their public spirit.