Upon the whole, I think that the most potent impression here is that all France is arranged for the advantage of the rich and the powerful. Negligible regard is given to the comfort of, or justice to, citizens of the lower stations: that this is the case is strikingly apparent upon entering Paris. Unlike London, which is well-lit at night, with clean, raised pavements on the sides of the main streets for the convenience and safety of foot-passengers—an effort which gives to the populace at-large evidence of the consideration of their government—Paris is but poorly and partially lit and, except for a few particular streets, is not constructed with regard for the accommodation and protection of those who have not the means to travel by carriage. The less-affluent must find their way as best they are able, groping through the darkness, dashing behind pillars or fleeing into the door-ways of the shops to avoid being over-run by the carriages which are driven—it appears to me—so as to be as close to the passers-by and any other obstruction or obstacle as the driver pleases, with no apparent regard for the danger to life or property than the man in the moon. Similarly, the law leaves the middle and lower orders quite unprotected, exposed to the whims and insolence of the powerful who are, in France, generally speaking, above the law.

It is certainly true that the lower orders here are exceedingly well-spoken, very polite, and superior in appearance to the English inferior class; however, “Un homme du peuple” implies a want of education and manners, whilst “Un homme comme il faut” does not imply either sense or principle, but merely that the man is of high birth or high fashion, but potentially devoid of every quality of kindness, liberality, or honour that our “gentleman” comprehends. Yet, inexplicably, the same inconsideration produces a society of uniformly polished manners, a lively and informed people, and an astonishingly pleasant, easy familiarity betwixt masters and servants that would be insupportable in England.

Returning to the smaller (but no less illustrious) sphere of ourselves, despite having no acquaintance here, we have received many invitations to soirées, suppers, concerts, &c. So many, in fact, that we are in grave danger of being unable, in future, of entertaining ourselves. Fortunately, we are never able to accomplish quite all of what we intend, and so continue very well. We attended the morning service at the Protestant church here this morning, and will attend again in the evening as we do at-home. I must leave off now, to eat our cold supper before services, as the servants at the hôtel have this half-day off to attend the Catholick church.

Your loving and dutiful daughter,

ELIZABETH DARCY

CHAP. 2.