iv PREFACE. 
_ These defects, in the constitution of 1795, appeared 
in the very moment of its birth; and became more 
and more glaring during the short period of its exis- 
tence. The History of France has, for too many years, 
been a severe illustration of the maxim, that Nations, 
in order to be free and happy, must be just and mode- 
rate. To describe and record whatever may impress 
on the mind this solitary lesson, isa task attended with 
a mixture of pain and pleasure ; pain, in contemplating 
the miserable effects of vice and folly ; pleasure, in the 
reflection, that such warnings may prevent misery. to 
the present and future ages. 
In making these selections, out of that vast variety 
of materials which is presented to the Annalist, ata 
period of such extended intercourse among men and 
nations, our Readers will perceive and acknowledge, 
that we are guided, not by any prejudices in favour of 
particular subjects, but, by a regard to the general 
views and conduct of the human understanding, and 
the common sentiments of the human heart. In the 
present volume there is an extraordinary occasion for 
the exercise and gratification of both: in the fall, and © 
final dismemberment and dissolution, of the Common- 
wealth of Poland; a very affecting, as wellas instruc- 
tive, Episode in the History of Europe. 
THE 
