for the Proprietors of Dodfley's Annual Register, R. LEA; J. NUNN; J.WALKER; LACKINGTON, ALLEN, AND CO. E. JEFFERY; AND VERNOR AND HOOD. PREFACE. TH HE most distingthed feature of the Revolution in France, the prolific parent of changes and innovations in other countries, already noticed in our volume for 1792, has been verified by the events that have taken place from that to the prefent period. The revolutionary spirit of the French Republic, like a lighted torch, moved rapidly round, scarcely leaves room for the contemplation of its particular phases, in the different stages of its progress, and is feen as one circle of fire. The constitution of 1795 contained, indeed, certain principles, which seemed to promise some degree of both strength and duration; and to be more favourable, than any of the preceding, to the interests of humanity, by guarding not less against the wildness of democracy than the chains of despotifm. Subsequent changes, however, and particularly the late metamorphosis of the Republic into a dictatorial or military government, (which will of course be noticed in its proper place and time) shew how little is to be expected from any forms, where simplicity of manners, and other requisites to the existence of a genuine Republic, are wanting. 10 These |