It would be a proof of ignorance of human nature to expect much of this virtue in contemporary France, a country divided, more than any other in Europe, by political and religious animosity. And, in fact, there is very little intellectual justice in France, the only men who cultivate the virtue being a few thoughtful philosophers who have little influence in the nation. I may mention Guyau as a representative of this small class.[48] He certainly endeavoured to think justly, which is one of several reasons for regretting his premature death. I myself have known two or three Frenchmen in private life who have the same desire to be just.
Justice Commoner in England than in France.
Party Dissensions in England.
Even amongst Philosophers.
The English are more favourably situated for the cultivation of this virtue, and, in fact, it is more frequently found amongst them; but the English themselves have entered upon a period of strong political dissension since the Irish question reached an acute stage, and even if that question were settled there are others beyond it which are not less likely to produce great intensity of party hatred. There will not be much justice whilst these dissensions continue. Even so ordinary an occurrence as a simple parliamentary election is now enough to divide the society of an English country town into hostile camps almost as bitter as French parties. What is most to be deplored is that some of the philosophers themselves, who might be expected to keep cool heads, have caught the contagion exactly like ordinary mortals.
Class Ideas.
Sympathy with the Slaveholders.
Antipathy to French Republicans.
English Sympathy with the Church of Rome.
Father du Lac. Queen Victoria a “Monstrous Anomaly.”