Even in the reign of Louis XIV. public opinion made itself heard. Placards appeared upon the walls of Paris to this effect:—
"Lost—The Royal Sceptre. The finder will be well rewarded."
The next day was announced, in the same place:
"The Sceptre found—Discovered on the toilette of a hypocrite.
"The Scales of Justice, also lost, found hidden in the sleeve of a Jesuit."
Other placards followed; they ran as follows:
GRAND SPECTACLE.
His Majesty .... Marionettes .
In the Chapel of Versailles.
Gratis!