There were in it two parties, the Socialists and the Centre, closely organised, admirably disciplined, obedient to leaders who were in opposition by principle; they looked on the Parliamentary campaign as a struggle for power, and they maintained the struggle with a persistency and success which had not been surpassed by any Parliamentary Opposition in any other country.

Apart from them the attitude of all the parties was normally that of moderate criticism directed to the matter of the Government proposals.

There were, of course, often angry scenes; Bismarck himself did not spare his enemies, but we find no events which shew violence beyond what is, if not legitimate, at least inevitable in all Parliamentary assemblies.

The main objects of the Government were always attained; the military Budgets were always passed, though once not until after a dissolution.

In the contest with the Clerical party and the Socialists the Government had the full support of a large majority.