Thus far four acts only have been played; of the fifth act, we have simply a presentiment .-- On the other hand, by dint of living under this social system, we have become accustomed to it; it no longer excites our wonder; however artificial it may be it seems to us natural.

We can scarcely conceive of another that is healthier; and what is much worse, it is repugnant to us to do so.

For, such a conception would soon lead to comparisons and hence to a judgment and, on many points, to an unfavorable judgment, one which would be a censure, not only of our institutions but of ourselves.

The machine of the year VIII,[1101] applied to us for three generations, has permanently shaped and fixed us as we are, for better or for worse.

If, for a century, it sustains us, it represses us for a century.