The right contemplated by the Italian politicians is that of the burghers to rule the commonwealth for their advantage.

As a matter of fact, Venice was the only Italian republic which maintained this kind of oligarchy with success through centuries of internal tranquillity.

The rest were exposed to a series of revolutions which ended at last in their enslavement.
[1] Villari, _Life of Savonarola_, vol.i.p.

259, may be consulted concerning the further distinction of Benefiziati, Statuali, Aggravezzati, at Florence.

See also Varchi, vol.i.pp.