They had remained supine and stolid, even while the cannonading against these beautiful cities was in their very ears.

No man seemed to think himself interested in public affair, save when his own province or village was directly attacked.

The general interests of the commonwealth were forgotten, in local jealousy.

Had it been otherwise, the enemy would have long since been driven over the Meuse.

"When money," continued the Prince, "is asked for to carry on the war, men answer as if they were talking with the dead Emperor.