Le Comte de Paris. By Le Marquis de Flers. Translated
by Constance Majendie. (W. H. Allen and Co.)—This is the story of about fifty years (1838-1887), for it begins with the marriage of the Duc d'Orleans, and ends with the "Instructions to the Monarchical Party in France " that were issued in September, 1887. The book may be described as material for history rather than history itself. The fiasco of February, 1848, is not accounted for ; and, indeed, this could hardly be done without offending the susceptibilities of some of M. de Flers' clients. There were others besides General Bedeau who were incapable. In fact, if there had been a man, either in the Royal house or among its advisers, as capable as was the Duchess of Orleans, things might have gone very differently. Apart from this consideration, the story is well and adequately told. It is, in any case, an authoritative statement of the ease from the Royalist side. Two things may be noticed,—first, the writer's assurance that the French Royalists are practically united in supporting the Comte de Paris; second, the respectful way in which the " generosity and chivalry" of the Prince Imperial are spoken of.
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