Napoleon alone was able to employ young men as he chose, without being restrained by any consideration.

After the overthrow of that mighty will, vigor deserted power.

Now the period when effeminacy succeeds to vigor presents a contrast that is far more dangerous in France than in other countries.

As a general thing, ministers who were old before they entered office have proved second or third rate, while those who were taken young have been an honor to European monarchies and to the republics whose affairs they have directed.

The world still rings with the struggle between Pitt and Napoleon, two men who conducted the politics of their respective countries at an age when Henri de Navarre, Richelieu, Mazarin, Colbert, Louvois, the Prince of Orange, the Guises, Machiavelli, in short, all the best known of our great men, coming from the ranks or born to a throne, began to rule the State.