His Empire was supported by artificial columns, resting upon the earth, which fell prostrate almost as soon as the hand of their architect was cold.

His institutions had not struck down into the soil.

There were no extensive and vigorous roots to nourish, from below, a flourishing Empire through time and tempest.
Moreover, the Carlovingian race had been exhausted by producing a race of heroes like the Pepins and the Charleses.

The family became, soon, as contemptible as the ox-drawn, long-haired "do-nothings" whom it had expelled; but it is not our task to describe the fortunes of the Emperor's ignoble descendants.

The realm was divided, sub-divided, at times partially reunited, like a family farm, among monarchs incompetent alike to hold, to delegate, or--to resign the inheritance of the great warrior and lawgiver.