88 



with the empire of the Turks ; and the heroic 

 defence she made against the attacks of nu- 

 merous enemies, place her resources and power 

 in singular contrast with the smallness of her 

 territory. Orl the other hand, her selfish policy ; 

 her imperious conduct wherever her influence 

 extended ; and her deadly jealousy of the neigh- 

 bouring republic of Genoa, rendered her the 

 object of universal envy and hatred. While at 

 home the rigorous despotism of her government, 

 which was ill concealed under the mask of 

 republican freedom, and the inquisitorial tyranny 

 of the senate, which silently pervaded every 

 house, and controlled almost the thoughts of 

 every individual, could tend only to alienate her 

 subjects. These are points of deep moral and 

 historical interest; but it may be safely said 

 that her government outlived the age to which 

 it was suited ; no timely reform adapted it to 

 the growing changes in the public mind no 

 concessions to the people united them in com- 

 mon cause with their haughty masters and the 

 fall of Venice may be ascribed more to her 

 internal vices, than to the overpowering armies 

 of France." 



6th. I have been so much better all day that 

 I was allowed to go down to tea; and had the 

 pleasure of hearing Mr. Maude describe the 

 fruitieres in Switzerland. I quite misunder- 



