The absurd but resolute defence of Rome against the French army, may surely be regarded as the act of an energetic people.

We must be extremely humble, if we admit that a French army was held in check for two months by men wanting in energy.

The assassinations which occur in the streets of Rome, prove rather the inefficiency of the police than the effeminacy of the citizens.

I find, from an official return, that in 1853 the Roman tribunals punished 609 crimes against property, and 1,344 against the person.

These figures do not indicate a faultless people, but they prove little inclination for base theft, and look rather like a diabolical energy.