Paris, under the fostering care of the Emperor, had become, next to St.Petersburgh, the dearest capital in Europe.

Its property was artificial, and was dependent upon a long chain of connecting links remaining unbroken.

In the industrial quarters money was made by the manufacture of _Articles de Paris_, and for these, as soon as the communications are reopened, there will be the same market as heretofore.

As a city of pleasure, however, its prosperity must depend, like a huge watering-place, upon its being able to attract strangers.

If they do not return, a reduction in prices will take place, which will ruin most of the shopkeepers, proprietors of houses, and hotel keepers; but this, although unpleasant to individuals, would be to the advantage of the world at large.