PARIS IN 1870 AND 1914

Dominion, Volume 7, Issue 2249, 8 September 1914, Page 6

PARIS IN 1870 AND 1914

A DIFFERENT NOTION. Writing in tho Paris "Gaulois" at the end of July, M, Arthur Meyer calls on his memories of 1870, and draws a striking contrast between Paris then and Paris to-day. "I'saw the boulevards in 1870. In 1914 the whole world of the boulevards passes my windows, and the difference is remarkable. Is it "because in 1870 we were still unconquered that the idea of defeat never entered our brains ? , The majority of, Frenchmen then regarded war as a military promenade. Those who in the streets, in the cafes; even in tho opera, shouted "to Borhm.l" were certainly sincere, and yet did not something artificial, exalted, and feverish rr.ako its way through the songs, and shouts-in the street, and-the excitement of t the street? . . . To-day we Icok round and we see- a people that is resolved, dignified, and overflowing with that health' which encourages and reassures. . . . Certainly mothers and fathers do not affect an unnatural stoicism, but none complains. This is an attitude that gives great hope, and might well upset the calculations of our adversaries if tlTey had speculated on our failings. This is not the only disappointment that they have to face. Russia 6hows herself absolutely determined, and we learn that the Emperor is taking 1 the command of his troops. England has mobilised, her Fleet, and that is of great importance." M, Clemenceauintho "Homme Libre" also renders homago to tho spirit of his countrymen. ' "I see around me," he says, "only men who are as calm as they are resolute. I hear nothing .expressed except ; hopes for peace, but those hopes • are accompanied with a smile of manly assurance which proves by the flash in the eyes that the soul of Franco has not degenerated."