864- Kar UC-NRLF ^B bll S2b r REESE LIBRARY UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA ^/JcicssioiiNo.y^ /^ / . Class No. B^U^. THU EDINBURGH MONTHLY REVIEW. PUBLISHED BY WAUGH & INNES, HUNTER SQUARE, EDINBURGH; AND BY G. & W. B. WHITTAKER, AVE-MARIA LANE, AND RODWELL & MARTIN, NEW BOND STREET, LONDON. SOLD ALSO BY JOHNSTON AND DEAS, DUBLIN, AND ALL THE PRINCIPAL BOOKSELLERS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM. 1 HIS Monthly Journal is intended to be a Review in the stricter sense of the word, avoiding all disquisition not essentially connected with a critical examination of the works noticed, and at the same time giving such statements of their contents as shall convey a clear and decided judgment on their merits. In this manner it is hoped that a satisfactory view will be given of the existing state of Literature, Science, and the Fine Arts. It is not intended to make Politics a regular topic of discussion ; but as, from its importance, it will occasionally demand attention, it will be treated in a spirit of loyalty and patriotism, proceeding from attachment to the institutions of the country, and a jealous but cordial regard to the just authority of the Magistrate and the civil rights of the subject, considered as reciprocal and inseparable. With respect to Religion, it is necessary to state, that whilst, from a firm conviction of the value of its truths, natural and revealed, no- thing hostile to its interests shall be allowed to vitiate the pages of this work, there is no intention of giving it a peculiar prominency, and therefore that reviews of publications which treat of it will proceed chiefly on the consideration of their literary merits. The Proprietors of this Journal submit their claim to the public attention, on the ground of the strictly critical nature of their plan, in the prosecution of which they are anxious to attain the honourable distinction of rendering their Publication an inviolate tribunal of li- terary equity. Each Number, price 2/6, will contain at least seven sheets of letter-press, to be published on the first of every month. The following Analysis of the first volume, commencing 1st January, 1819, now com- pleted., may enahk the reader to judge of the plan and imnciple^ of the work. 1st July, 1819. ANALYSIS ..^^^ OF ARTICLES CONTAINED IN THE FIRST VOLUMl?:, Extending from January to June, I8I9. NUMBER FOR JANUARY. Art. I. Birkbeck's Letters from lUinois. P. I — 20. Policy of British Legislature in act for regulating emigration — various causes of emigration — our emigrant population have long turned to North Americii, and been tempted to the United States — purposes of these letters — some account of Mr. Birkbcck — his confi- dence greater than his experience — is anxious to vindicate 4iis own conduct, and to induce followers — whimsical consolation for the want of good roads— contrasts his situation in America with that he had in England — ^his reasons for preferring the Illinois — affects to abhor slavery, while he adopts a country where it exists — makes a temporary cabm — process of chunking and muddhig — ^lias few neighbours — his letters not allowed both to vindicate and advise — his fortitude not thoroughly tried — his opinions and calculations somewhat hast)' — the letters cannot show whether his hopes were realized — contradictory statements respecting price of labour — his remarks satisfactory as to prices of provisions — the letters become more political and less informing — Mr. Birkbeck a malcontent — wretched administration of law in Illinois accounts for the disorders which prevail — squat' tiiigy a violent invasion of property, very common — JVlr. Birkbeck erroneous as to taxa- tion — protection afforded by the United States weak and uncertain — emigrants from Scot- land noted for patriotism, yet eminently successful in their enterprises — Mr. Birkbeck no way attached to his native country — emigration of such a man excites little sympathy— his abuse of the establishments and governments of Britain — state of religion in Air. Birkbeck's colony appreciated — his character unfolded in the detection of his fallacies— our own colonies are to be preferred by emigrants, but it is not desirable that the discon- tented should visit them — concluding estunate of the credit due to Mr. Birkbeck's expe- rience. Art ir. Evans's Collection of Statntcs. P. 20—37. General importance of such a work — bulk of statute law an occasion of many complaints- reformation of Statute Book agitated in Parliament — liOrd Stanhope's project nullified by Mr. Horner's arguments — Mr. Evans's work not an abridgment — arrangement of the statutes the most difficult part — titles of the acts often quite absurd and irrelevant — Mr. Evans's division of the statutes quoted — Lord Stanhope's fanciful arrangement — all the indexes to the statutes, excepting llufFhead's, confused and nearly useless — Lord Karnes's Abridgment of Statutes oi Scotland tlie best of the kind — good judgment of Mr. Evans in printing the text, but many errors have escaped— ]Mr. Evans reprehended for inserting treatises foreign from the work — deeerves well of his country — ^hasty and frequent exer- cise of legislative authority condemned — Mr. Evans not judicious in his advice to Par- liament Aut. III. Vaccination and Small-Pox cwisidered. P. 27—40. Inoculation early in the East — ^progress of small-pox in Europe detailed — first notions of inoculation erroneous — prepress of inociUation from seventeenth century — comparative mortality of natural and inoculated disease — inociUation for small pox relatively diminish- ed, but actually increased the number of deaths — vaccination introduced 1798 — its pro- tecting power proved — cases of failure similar to what occur after small- pox itself — variety of eruptions which have affected those who have had small-pox — various eruptive diseases succeeding vaccination in like manner — small-pox taken a second time, and sometimes been fatal — small-pox has also sometimes followed vaccination — the security derived from vaccination exactly the same as that derived from small-pox itself — but small-pox is al- ways dangerous and often fatal, whereas cow-pox is entirely free from danger — the con- clusion from these premises decisive, and that alone in which the public is interested- some discordant opinions on mmor topics among medical men— improvement of the pre- valent alarm to extend and confirm the practice of vaccination. Art. IV". Moore's Sacred Songs. P. 41—47. Change of spirit in Mr. Moore hailed — commendation of his sincerity and genius— his ha- bits not quite formed to his new character — some faultiness in these pieces, greatly arising froin their specific form and object—two examples in proof — the two poems thought the best, probably not most esteemed by the author — other two very beautifid, but not quite so pnre-L^ne thought likeiy to be a general favourite— take leave of Mr. Moore with re- bpect and good wishes. Analysis of Ar licks contained in the first Volume. 5 AnT. v. Generaliio\xTgdMi}Cs Campaign of \%l^. P. 48 — 70. The General a devotee of Bonaparte — the first French officer turned author — \\\s advantages on this occasion — his'statement of relative forces — details different schemes considered by Bonaparte various operations, and reasons for thein, from May to the day of V\''aterloo remarks on his statements respecting that battle — instances of British heroism — the (general's opinion of Bonaparte's plans and condition after tlr, battle considered — exact amount of allies at Waterloo ascertained — French decidedly niore numerous— usual mode of exciting French troops accounts for their successes and their defeats — superiority of Bri- tish silence over French noise — futurity confidently appealed to, as to the consequences of this campaign on the state of Europe. Art. VI. Skinner's Annals of Scottish Ejnscopdcji. P. 70 — 83. Presbyterians and Episcopalians misrepresent each other— excellent behaviour of Episcopa- lians under severe sufferings — subjected to excessive grievances and most iniquitous disabi- lities effects of such persecution in exciting the zeal of Bishop Skinner, afterwards so suc- cessful in serving his church — death of Prince Charles important to the Episcopalians — they apply to Parliament for relief, and are supported — Thurlow their greatest opponent — Horsley their most able advocate — they attain their object — their next concern, to form a nnion with English Episcopalians resident in Scotland, which is at last effected — their present prospci-ity ought not to alarm the Church of Scotland — ^general opinion respecting the work. Art. VII. — Anaysi's EssaTf 071 Spanish Literature. P. 84 — 94. Enthusiasm about every thing Spanisli prevalent a few years ago, now declining — this work merely introductory, and very incomplete — Mr. A. divides his historical sketch injudici- ously — gives a fancifill account of the formation of the language, and shews his credulity — his list of authors imperfect — Spain excels in qld chronicles — some account of Mariana — obstacles to the general interest of the early history of Spain — one short period excepted — character of Mendoza as an historian — remarks on Cervantes — a singular work of Gracian noticed — Mr. A. excludes Portuguese authors. Art. VIII Brown's Memoirs of the Life of John ITo'xard. P. 95 — 109. A character like Howard's an object of the highest admiration — Mr. Brown's work a just tribute to his superlative excellencies — other nations may boast of illustrious men, Britain alone has had a Howard — an account of his life and labours and death — estimate of his peculiar features — Burke's eulogium. Art. IX Hobhouse's Historical Illustrations. P. 110 — 118. Manoeuvring of authors, reviewers, and bookseller;; — character of Mr. Hobhouse and his wri- tings — nature and contents of this work — degrees of national respect to great men — im- prisonment of Tasso explained — anecdotes of Alficri — JMr. Hobhouse's excellent descrip- tion of approach to Home — his exposure of errors as to tlie walls of that city — Hannibal and Napoleon, two magistrates there in 1221 — pious xchippingSy or flagellation variously described — state of religion in Rome — alleged discovery at Albano — the letters of Tas50 transcribed by Mr. Hobhouse of little iBterest — commendation of work and author. NUMBER FOR FEBRUARY. Art. I — Jardine's Philosophical Education. P. 119 — 141. Reviewer does not concur in the prevalent anticipations respecting schemes of education — opi- nion given as to the common basis of literary reputation — object of ^Mr. Jardine's work to unfold his own system of education — great merit of Mr. Jardine, whatever be the charac- ter of his book — historical account of Scots professors shews JMr. Jardine's system not to be original — division of Mr. Jardine's work — progress of Arisfeotle's philosophy — presump- tion and great merits of Peter Ramus, its most active opponent — reform in the mode of teaching philosophy, introduced into college of Glasgow 1727 — extended by various cau- ses till the time of Mr. Jardine, who labours at still farther improvement — ^leading objects of his system, and his views of various parts of intellectual science — all his counsels and ideas not approved of— comparison of lectures with extemporaneous speaking— Mr. Jardine's contrivances for exercising the faculties — objections to part of his discipline, and to the practice of essay- writing— -different plans of treatment required for different minds — balan- ced opinion pronounced on Mr. Jardine as an author — his mode of teaching conceived to be of partial, and by no means superlative value — this production altogether deserving of re- spectful consideration, but mainly defective, as not sufficiently guarding against prevalent error and prejudice. Art. II. — Coxe*s Memoirs of Marlborough. P. 141 — 175. Striking contrasts in the character and fortune of Marlborough — all prenous accounts of his life imperfect — advantages and experience of Mr. Coxe — have not profited him so much as could have been expected — some account of Marlborough's early life—instance of his 4i Analysis of Articles contained in the First Volume. precocious avarice — narrative of Marlborough's life and actions continues, with sundry re- prehensions of Mr. Coxc's gross partiality, excessive courtliness, careless omissions, and bungling apologies — curious interview of Marlborough with .lames 11. quoted — dishon- ourable conduct of Marlborough pointed out — his transactions and treachery under King WiUiam's reign — Princess Anne and Duchess of JNlarlborough cabal against that prince —disgraceful epithets used by the former — Marlborough's arrest greatly aflects her — his shameful double-dealing with James and William — prudent conduct of the latter — Marl- borough restored to honours, and his friend Godolphin to power — glorious career of JNlarl- borough under Queen Anne — death of his only son — his extreme unhappiness, from dis- sensions in the cabinet, and the intrigues of his wife — Mr. Coxe's great merit in his mili- tary details — interesting journal of campaigns by Hare the Duke's chaplain — Marlbo- rough's short note after the victory at Blenheim — his generosity to theKlectress of Bavaria — scheme opposed by Dutch stupidity — Grumbkow's curious picture of Charles XII. — JVIr. Coxc expected soon to lini&li his work. Akt. III.— Bright's Travels in Lower Ihiv^ary. P. 17,5—203. General commendation of the worlc and author — the first chapter most amusing— assemblage at the Kedoute described — various royal and common amusements noticed — ceremonies of religion specified — second chapter gives account of the various collections, institutions, and establishments at Vienna, several of which are particularized — laudable lueans used to pro- mote manufactures — the author's route described — condition of the Hungarian peasants stated — description of Pcsth — curious police regulations as to fire — historical aod political remarks respecting religious parties in Hungary — observable differences between Hungary and Styria — Gratz described — Dr. Bright always hospitably received — his opinion of the character and capabilities of Hungary— its attachment to Austria conceived a prejudice- sundry particulars respecting the gypsies — a few suggestions to the author — part with him respectfully. Art. IV Fearon*s Slcetclies of America. P. 203—218. Mr. Fearon a lover of the American republic, but a candid and a sensible man — consequence of this combination in the character of liis book — desirous of being pleased, but iriterested to know the tnith — agreement and difference between him and Mr. Birkbeck — narrative of Mr. Featon's progress, and description of simdry objects seen by him — slavery of blacks and whites in the United States — characteristic dialogue — state of manners in America not attractive — gambling conjoined with politics, morality, and religion — very scanty literature — >Ir. Fcaron sneers at the administration of the different states — electioneering tactics — bri. beryand corruption rife- — Mr. Fearon too severe — absurdity of the idea that the people are unworthy of their government — recommendation of the work to intending emigrants— not strange that United States people emigrate to Canada — ^but strange that Britons prefer the United States — information would prevent this blunder. Art. V. — Marsan's Answer to Pillct. P. 219 — 229. Real grandeur in the British people — public mind among them unrivalled, all-effective, and ever emerging from calamities — transition from this glorious object to a wretched slanderer, to General Pillet ! — his calumnies well received in France, and why — England would not find him an opponent — his countryman voluntarily enters the lists — character of the two knights — specimen of the fight, the turnips and carrots attacked and defended ! — the gene- ral stumbles on a horse's bones ! — he is run down among the prisoners ! — thojisands of ghosts called up in his cjefence ! — hand to hand combat — the poor general, quite cut up, vanishes ! — the victorious Marsan a very simple man — congratulation on the demolition and scattering of such beings as Pillet. Art. VI. — Chalmers' Sermon for the Hilernian Society. P. 250—238. Character of Dr. Chalmers gives importance to his productions — present performance as care- less as any of them, but as useful — some account of the Society — its object what, and how aided by Dr. Chalmers — his text urged against evil-speaking, and to recommend self exami- nation— advantages of this last practice — particularly requisite on this occasion— Protestants knowing tlieir own faults will be induced to exercise moderation and affection in pointing out errors in Koman Catholics — various instances of similarity between them — application of the argument to the labours of the Society — clamorous objections to this discourse shown to be unfounded — its only bearing on the Catholic question is its inculcating the propriety of dispassionate inquiry, and its tendency to obviate the causes of erroneous judgment — universal apphcability and paramount authority of the text — Dr. Chalmers's cojicluding eulogium of the Irish. NUMBER FOR MARCH, Art. I — Chalmers' Life of Qecn Mary. P. 229 — 260. interest rcFpecting Mary jiot ceased — parties against and for her — qualifications required in her biographer — character and prejudices of present author unhappy — opinion entertained of . Analysis of Articles contained in ihejirst Volume. 5 his work as a literary production not high — view given of some of its peculiarities to con- firm that opinion — hasty and hazardous decision of Mr. Chalmers respecting Mary's edu- cation malignity of Mr. Chalmers towards reformers — he resolutely opposes truth as to the concessions of the Guise family — his unrelenting and absurd hatred of Murray a. key to much of his work — some interesting particulars concerning Mary — total failure of Mr. Chalmers in a charge on Murray — injudicious conduct of that nobleman as to Mary's mar- riage affair of Ilizzio — more plotting of I\l array according to Mr. Chalmers — reiterated ac- cusation of Murray as to Darnley's murder, shown to be utteily groundless and improbable- Mr. Chalmers labours without effect to clear Mary's conduct towards the murderer Bothwell —her resignation of the crown strangely described — Mr. Chalmers commended for infor- mation and sentiment respecting Elizabeth's behaviour to Mary — his work abounds ia misrepresentations and bad logic — qualified perusal of it recommended. Art. it On the Pmiishment of Forgery, P. 2G0 — 27C. Difficulties and contradictory opinions concerning penal jurisprudence — idea of the author as to the punishment of death, applied to the case of forgery, and supported by reference to , Jewish law — inconsistency and strange consequences of that appeal — binding authority of Jewish code as a whole abandoned, but recourse to it for secondary j)urposes advised — question stated as to the time and necessity for the vJihimm supplicium — appliciiticn of the arguments adduced to the case of forgery — that crime admitted ex gratia to be merely theft — but theft how aggravated ! — its mischiefs and extension, its faciUty of commission and profitable nature — various facts mentioned — opinion given as to what may be the pro- per punishment of such a crime — but the gentler means ought to he tried — legislature ex- horted and counselled — commendation of author's sincerity and object, but disagreement as to means for accomplishing the end in view. Art. Ill Mrs. Opie's New Talcs. P. 27G— 295. Precariousness and fleeting nature of talents — character of Mrs. Opie — contents of present volumes — story of Mrs. Arlington analyzed and appreciated — second story slurred over — story of " White Ivies" particularly noticed — " Henry Woodvillc" io Mrs. Opie's fa. vourite style — " Quaker and Young Man of the World" favourably mentioned — " Tale of Trials," a compound of excellencies and favdts — " The Confessions of an Odd-Tem- pered man" very provoking — " The Ruffian Boy" occasions much interest — " The Wei- come Home" very homely — critique on Mrs. Opie's general beauties and defects as & writer of fiction — relative inferiority of the " New Tales." Art. IV. Abuses of Irish CMrtered Schools. P. 295—311. Importance of education to the condition of mankind — restricted object of the present inquiry — merit of Ilobert Steven, Esq — origin and progress of plan for encouraging protestant schools in Ireland — governors of them become pensioners of Parliament — tlieir effrontery and mal- administration — Howard exposes them — wretched condition of scholars — gross in- consistency of Irish House of Commons — Imperial Parliament reprehensibly profuse and indulgent towards the managers — immense monies remain to be accounted for by them — a call on them for explanation — alleged immoralities require investigation — much exertion, parliamentary and individual, needed for the welfare of Ireland — " Hibernian Society" recommended to support — two replies to the present work noticed. Art. V. On the Treatment oftJie Poisoned. P. 312—320. Object and method of the work explained — condensed practical directions deduced from it qualified commeaulation. Art. VI. Lives of Haydn a7id Mozart. P. 321 — 340. "What sentiments due to such men — strictures on the book and author for tedious disquisi- tions, disjointed narrative, excessive admiration, erroneous ideas, vmfounded ascriptions an absurd analogy, a gross anachronism, and unjust partiality — only one style for the best musical compositions — comparative intelligibility of classical composers accounted for nar- rative of H aydn's life, and historical notices of his productions — the author corrected as to , Haydn's last works — estimate of the excellencies of Haydn — resemblance of music and • poetry, and parallels in the masters of them — notices of Mozart's life — remarks on his me- ■ Tits and works — imitative capability of music maintained— opinion on the state of music in Italy. Art, VII. Knight's Theory of the Earth. P. 340 356. This, the precursor and abridgment of a larger work, is hasty, immethodical, and inflated with hypotlieses — Dr. Knight leans to the Huttonians, but wiU not be relished by them the sense in which his theory is ncza — reviewer's view of his system — strictures and objec- tions — extracts to shew the system is fairly represented— several decisive reasons "iven for utterly discarding some of its leading principles, besides the fact of its being hable to the chief difllicvUties attendant on the Huttonian theory — several subordinate statements of Dr. Knight's erroneous — his good sense where he adheres to known principles his book pre- gents little that is new, but much that is con jecturaL Anati/sis of Articks contained in the first Volume, NUMBER FOR APRIL. AnT. I. Drake's S/iakspeare and 7iis Times. P. 257 383. Error respecting the dark ages corrected— consequences of Constantino's measures as to lite- ratiu-e— extension and originality of mind in the remote nations of the empire— chan-^es on the drama— scenic representations soon introduced into Critahi analysis of Dr. Dnike's work— general character of it— Dr. Drake's indiscriminate admiration— critique on the merits of Shakspearc— as to his mythological inventions — and his improvement of the Drama— the real excellence of Shakspeare what— historical notice* of stage matters— Dr. Drake scanty in information respecting the early history of the British stage— remarks oii phys suppositiously ascribed to Shakspeare— Dr. Drake verv tender on faults of Shak. speare— Voltaire's critique on Hamlet— analysis oi Edward III. with extracts— conjee- tare as to Shakspeare being the author both of it and the Merry Devil of Edmonton— 9. chapter o» ecclesiastical customs of Shakspeare's time, a desideratum in Dr. Drake's work. Art. II. Benger's Memoirs of Mrs. Hamilton. P. 383—395. Common disappointment as to characters of authors— Mrs. Hamilton an exception— opinion of Miss Benger's work— condensed a.-count of Mrs. Hamilton illustrated with extracu and observations ; also notices respecting her publications- remarks on the pieces added to the memoirs— estimate of Mrs. HamUton's literaiy and personal character— concliidinL' compliments on M iss Benger. Art. ill. Cornwall Geological Society Transactions. P. 395— 411. Profitable excitement of philosophical controversy— this volume the first fruits of a new so- ciety—specification of Its contents— recent formation of sandstone in Cornwall— descrip- tive notices of sundry geological phenomena, and particulars of mines in that county from various papers— connexion of geological structure with agii cultural economy of Cornwall shewn— lustory of introduction of steam engine into South America— various papers rc- terr»d to — general commendation of the authors. Art. IV. Principia Hebraica. P. 414-4-18. Caveat against alarm— claims of Old Testament Scriptures stated— value of Hebrew shewi* generally and specifically— approbation of the dcsi,ir>i of the work— objection to the pkw~. Its twofold division- two ways of reading Hebrew— opinion given as to conduct of their advocates— unhappmess of an attempt to unite io^/^— grammatical analysis here ^iven maintained to be injudicious— habit of reading scripture without attention to meanin*'- re- prehended — advice as to the study of Hebrew. Art. V. Carey's Mercantile Arithmetic. P. 418 427. Origin and progress o? public funds or stocks— redeeynahle and irredeemable debt distinoiiished —operations on the stocks described— funded and unf aided debt yfhat— government annni- ties enumerated—stocks of public companies specified— account of maritie insurance— deR. nition of averages — qualified commendation of the work. Art. VI. Rogers' Human Life. P. 427 434. M^^ Rogers' poetical fellowship with Lord Byron— its effects on his muse unhappy— Mr llogers was able to be, and ought to have been independent— favourable anticipations of Ins new work in spite of its subject— disappointment— of what kind and degree, and how accounted for — critique and specimens. Art. VII. Bristed's America and lier Resources. P. 435 447. Consequence of America in every point of view— travellers in it classified— tlie work ana- lysed— territorial aspect— population and extent— commerce— agriculture and manufac tures— steam-engine personified-finances and expenditure— government and policy- li- terature and education— manners and morals— predictions of England's downfal. Art. VII. Carlisle on Endowed Grammar Schools. P. 447—459. Necessity for investigating their state-influenced the Education Committee-industry and success of Mr. Carlisle-object of his inquiries stated-nature of his work-critical re- marks on some of its^mcidental contents-catalogue of abuses in schools arranged in al- phabetical order of the counties in which they exist— this article preparatory. Art. IX. Dr. King's Anecdotes. P. 460 478. Opinion of the work-editor's biographical notice of Dr. King very scanty-reviewer's cen- sure of Dr. Kmg supported by reference to his own assertions, and to Nichol's literary anecdotes— contents of the work generaUy stated-reflections on power of the Stuarts— f^fh^^'"^K■ ^i^P'-^^t^r^f-anecdotes of Charles II. and Oliver Cromwell-of lln r nS?/ n^'' VValpole-mortifying fate of Pultney-remarks on Walpole '::^um^^^7■v~'''^ p °^ ^harton-Bishop Atterbury's presence of mind twice ex- ^^ H^^fiiLttt'dBuLT "' '"^^-"^ '^"^ '^^ ' "^^^"^^- qua4l-liberality of Analysis cf Articles contained in the first Volume, 7 NUMBER FOR MAY. Art. I. N6uv€an Dictionmire d'Histoirc Naturelle. P. 480 — 50G. Reference to first edition of the work—allusion to the editor. Dr. Virey—account of intro- ductory essay — its bombast and inconsistencies — editor's notions of double and single life, and degrees of intellect — vulgar depreciation of the domestic pig erroneous — remarks on organized bodies— on degeneration of animals— on the elephant— on sundry artificial sub- jects qualified commendation of some articles by the editor — contributors and contribu- tions to the work enumerated, with occasional observations — general opinion of the work. Art. U. Ilackett's Expedition to South American Patriots. P. 507 — 523. Nature of the work stated— its veracity maintained — progress of the insurrectionary war- account of the author, and the army to which he attaches himself— their operations — their misfortunes — expedition totally fails— character of the contest shewn — shocking barbarity and pillaging — unfavourable statements restricted — doubtful opinion as to the end of the war. Art. III. Historic Doubts relative to Napoleon Buonaparte. P. 523 — 530. Design and execution of work highly praised — application of sceptical principles to history of Buonaparte — doubt-exciting circumstances mentioned — inference trom tliem enforced— specimens — defence of a specific parody — recapitulation and recommendation. Art. IV. The Fast of St Magdalen, P. 531—537. Danger of modern romance writers — notice of JNIiss Porter— outline of the story — general opinion and extract. Art. V. Gentz on the Liberty of the Press. P. 536 — 558. Sentiments respecting the author and his former productions contrasted with impressions made by the present work — it is erroneous and sophistical — he attacks unlicensed printing generally — that of Britain specially— plan and object of the work noticed— its principles and statements exposed and refuted — fervent conclusion for our legal liberty. Art. VI. Hill's Ancient Greece. P. 559 — 565. Character and utility of the work — some of its parts specifically noticed, witli observations — picture of the heroic ages — remarks on oracle at Delphi — Eleusinian mysteries treated of — effects of Olympic games — cursory glance at several essays, with critical reflections— re- commendation of the work. Art. VII. Antar. P. 566—577. Arabian language contains treasures— this translation of a romance an earnest of what may be expected from it — Antar considered in two lights — manners and opinions of Arabians described, with specimens — analysis of the plot, witli specimens — judgment as to the trans- lation. Art. VIIL Inquiry into Schools and CJiaritahle Endowments. P. 578—617. Object of Education Committee stated — general inquiry into concerns related thereto approv- ed — extension of inquiry and assumption of powers condemned — sentiments and views of Mr. Brougham censured — his complaints investigated, with remarks on the probable con- sequences of his intended measures, and the propriety of opposing them — statement of some facts respecting the appointment of commissioners — ha&ty and unparliamentary conduct of Mr. Brougham reprehended — mischievous effect of his interference instanced — defence of Dr. Ireland— conclusion as to the public opinion on the subject of the article. Art. IX. The Vampyre. P 618—620. An imposition detected — account and condemnation of the work, with specimen. NUMBER FOR JUNE. Art. I. Recent Improvements in Chernistry. P. 625 — 642. Merits of modern chemists stated — Dr. Murray commended — general account of the works noticed— specification and elucidation of improvements— doctrine of definite proportions considered, with opinion ajs to the mode of studying chemistry — inquiries as to muriatic acid and chlorine— theory respecting efliciency of hydrogen— analysis of mineral waters the characteristic features of Dr. Murray appreciated. Art. II. Curwen's Letters on Ireland. P. 643 654. General opinion of the work favourable— author's tour mentioned- character of Irish— gene- ral description of cabins— ill effects of parties— Moravian establishment— remarks on po- pulation— on linen trade— on observance of Sunday— liveliness and affection of the people —interesting picture of a cabin— what is wanted for Ireland— bane of illicit distiHation— remarks on rents— xMiss Edgeworth and famUy noticed— extract on lake of Killarney. 8 Analysis of Articles contained in thejlrst Volume. Art. III. Lady JMorgan's Florence Macarthy. V. 635 — 662. Difficulty of reclainiiiig the author — ^avoid the task — ^laboured commenceiTient of the novel— r character of sonic of its personages — unfavourable o])inion of the plot — O'Lcary, the school- master, introduced — critique on the work, and on tlic author's principles, Uilents, taste, and modesty. Art. IV. History of DuhUn. P. (562— f)77. Origin and progress of the work detailed — its historical introduction commended — 1 st chapter, ♦» Of the antiquities, &c of Dublhi," noticed — 2d chapter to the (ith, ♦♦ treating of a va- riety of subjects respecting the ancient state of the city," ciu-sorily glanced at — 7th chapter, *« Of the interludes and plays formerly carried on," specially mentioned, with extracts — 8th chapter, •♦ Of the forces, musters," &c. partially noticed — clmpter 9th and lOth, con- tainuig " Annals of Dublin," commented on — 11th chapter, " Fasti Ijublinienses," and, 12th chapter, " Annals continued," characterized — Another division of the work — allusions to ecclesiastical history of Dublin — remarks on modern city — multiplicity of dram- shops lamented — ^population calculated — St. Patrick's cathedral noticed — parochisd churches — scanty church yards — custom-house praised — particulars respecting Trinity Colleoe — benevolent institutions enumerated — parochial schools and places of worship mentioned— short references to various other topics — concluding commendation. Art. V. Travels in the Tyrol, ^c. P. 678—680. Commendatory notice of the work — Tyrolian peasantry described — constitutions, &c. of the Tyrolians glanced at — instance of prevalent superstition — Apollo Belvidere excessively ad- mired — religious antipathy and veneration exemplified. Art. VI. Laxo'^s Memorialls, by Sharps. P. 681 — 707. JCewspapers and diaries characterized and compared — requisites for the latter — the editor known — his talents not envied — his spirit censured — extract from Kirkton's work, and edi- tor's note respecting Charles I — editor's ignorance and presumption there shewn — low opi- nion as to his present undertaking — general character of Mr. Law and his memorialls — editor ekes out the volume with shadowy nothings — some of his notes scrutinized — nonsense about Oliver Cromwell — prophecies about restoration of Charles — Lilly's predictions and influence alluded to — superfluous zeal and horror of the editor about the Weirs— ^more fooleries of the editor hinted at — opinions and laws about witchcraft explored, with histori- cal notices, strictures, and references — Scots not more credulous than English — Ilees's Cy- clopsedia, in article AVitchcraft, prolongs the reign of idle fables — concluding warning. Art. V^II. Morgan's Philosophf/ of Life. P. 708— 726. Characteristic of the times — probable nature and effects of prevailing knowledge — general de- scription of the work — peculiar sentiments of the author criticised — chief object of his vui- dertaking — analysis of the chief contents, with extracts and animadversions remarks ou the literary merits of the work — opinion hazarded as to its value. Art. VIII. Voyage of Discovery to Baffin's Bay. P. 726 — 746. Prevalent information as to the object and result of this voyage — account of the Esquimaux — particulars respecting the progress of tliis expedition — controversy about Lancaster Sound undecided — consideration of Captain Koss's opinions and conduct somewhat unfavourable to him — his general inferences admitted, and why — what the amount of discovery stated science little aided by this expedition — subject of the magnet most affected by it Captain Sabine's " Remarks" greatly to the disadvantage of Captain J?oss — the contents of them stated, with extracts — opinion of Maclaurin respecting a northern passage into the Pacific quoted with approbation. *,• This Analysis may be found useful, as presenting, in a small compass, the order, con- tents, principles, and opinions of the various criticisms. It will also bear to be read by itself- ^ It has, therefore, something else than mere novelty to reconmiend it ; and it has been judged | preferable to a partial index, which is rarely consulted, and never read. Amount of Articles, and of the Books, Pampltlcts, or Essays, noticed. Articles. Books, &c. Jaxuary, - 9 - - -- . 14 February, - 6 - 6 March, -7 7 April, -9--.-. 9 May, - 9 11. June, - 8 ,,-.., 13 48 63 Edinburgh : Printed by Balioiu: Si. Clarke. MEMOIR Of CHARLES LOUIS SAND, UNivERsinr ^CALIFORH\L ■'nnni'T^-Ti-^'inri iiill tB [AJELES LOIUIIS SAB lijj. . - The tempest cf my mind. Doth from my sejises taie all feelin?- else. Save what teats there!" Sliako-pear-r. L'mdt:n.9iiHi.'^hfd as the /id, dired.'!, Aiu!u-^t. !iiJ9 A MEMOIR CHARLES LOUIS SAND; INCLUDING A :Nrarratibe of tfie Circumstances ATTENDING THE DEATH OF AUGUSTUS VON KOTZEBUE: ALSO, A DEFENCE OF THE GERMAN UNIVERSITIES. WITH AN INTRODUCTION AND EXPLANATORY NOTES BY THE EDITOR. Embellished with a Portrait of Sand. Les revolutions qui arrivent dans les grands etats ne sent point un effect du hazard, ni du caprice des peu pies. Rein ne revoite les grands d'un royaume comme un gouvernement foible et derange. Pour la populace, ce nest jamais par envie d' attaquer qn' elle se souleve,mais par impatience desouffrir. Memoires de Sully. Tom I. P.m. ThoDgh this be madness, yet there's method in it! Hamlet, Act II. Scene II. LONDON: PRINTED FOR G. & W. B. WHITTAKER, 13, AVE MARIA LANE. 1819. ^ (o /% / W. Shackell, Pnnter, Johnson's-court, Fleet-street, London. Vl>^5 /^ 7-1 la .EDITOR'S INTROBUCTIONc As no other record of the transactions which led to and followed the death of M. Kotzebue, has extended beyond the limits of a few newspaper paragraphs, all of which are extremely contradictory and imperfect, the Editor presumes it is unnecessary to make any apology for the present publication. The Memoir, though no doubt susceptible of considerable improvement, is that which has been received and circulated as the most authentic in Germany; and although the Defence of the Universities may give rise to a^ diiFerence of opinion, as to the author's success in establishing their complete vin- dication : there can be but one sentiment VI entertained, with regard to the blameable course pursued by M. Kotzebue, so clearly explained by the writer. But heaven forbid the Editor should imagine that unfortunate victim merited such a tragical end, for the mere act of making comments, which, whe- ther the result of honest conviction, or of ve- nal profligacy, should still be corrected rather by the pen of the critic, than the knife of the assassin. Without being in any manner answerable for the doctrines or arguments of the Professor, the Editor could not be insensible to the importance of several of his facts and observations, the whole of which, he has done his utmost to place in the clear- est point of view, leaving the final decision of their merits to a more competent tribunal. In laying the following Memoir and De- fence before a British public, the Editor is, however, induced to offer some preliminary remarks, explanatory of the motives which have prompted this undertaking, as well as for the purpose of disarming the prejudices of those, who are ever ready to put an evil Vll construction on the actions of others, if not perfectly in unison with their own mode of thinking. The Editor has recently visited Germany ; he has observed the extraordinary sensation created by the fate of M. Kotzebue, and has been very forcibly struck by the great degree of involuntary sympathy every where so eagerly manifested in favour of the per- petrator Sand, whose portrait he frequently saw exhibited in frames containing those of the most distinguished German patriots ; while various - pamphlets, and numerous elegiac stanzas extolled his early virtues and deplored his melancholy fate. It was natu- ral for him to feel the utmost surprize at these circumstances, and that too, in a coun- try whose inhabitants are above all others, least likely to advocate or approve the dread- ful crime of assassination.^ Concluding, therefore, that this singular state of the public mind, must have originated in some * Robberies and murders, are less frequent in tba German states, than in any part of Europe. Vlll cause arising from the peculiar nature of the times and condition of the people, he deter- mined to extend his inquiries ; and although the more minute results of the information he obtained, are reserved for a future occasion, he is yet unwilling to omit the present op- portunity of stating a few of the most pro- minent facts ; because they have an imme- diate connection with that simultaneous desire for reform and improvement, now so unanimously felt throughout the whole European commonwealth. The high sense of religion, turn for deep thinking and simplicity of manners, by which the second and third classes of society are distinguished in Germany, have been already illustrated by several writers ; but by none so ably as Madame de Stael, in her admirable work entitled De L'Allemagne : for, to the exact veracity of her assertions, and the solidity of her reasonings, with the exception of some trifling inaccuracies, all those who have any knowledge of the coun- try, including the natives themselves, bear IX ample testimony. Whoever reflects on those qualities, and the amazing intellectual ad- vances made by Germany during the last century; when he recollects, at the same time, that an ardent love of freedom was the marked characteristic, and has invariably, however studiously repressed, appeared to be the instinctive passion of the people ; cannot wonder that after having witnessed the innumerable abuses eradicated by the late struggle for public liberty in France, the Germans should now pant for a removal of those evils, civil and political, which still continue to impede their own happiness and prosperity. Owing to the fatal direction taken by the politics of France, when that country was given up to the inexorable sway of san- guinary demagogues and unprincipled fac- tions in the early part of the revolution, and by which the hopes anticipated from the event, were blasted for a time at least; a long series of uninterrupted warfare and re- ciprocal aggression, suspended the progress of liberal principles to the north of the Rhine. But they were revived on the restoration of peace in 1814, and greatly augmented, when, notwithstanding their vmheard of sufferings, and endless sacrifices, the people saw, that instead of performing often re- peated promises, and establishing a social system, more conducive to the interests of the Germanic confederation, and consonant to the improved spirit of an enlightened age ; the congress assembled at Vienna, for the avowed purpose of consolidating the peace and happiness of nations, seemed only to think of aggrandizement and partition, trans- fer and spoliation ! It seems, however, that a war of twenty- five years, was insufficient to expiate the sins of Europe, or glut the insatiate idol of depotism ; consequently, when the violation of the treaty by which Elba was allotted to the Emperor Napoleon, and the non-obser- vance of the charter, led to the return of that sovereign,* the nations were once more * For an aecount of the circumstances attending the XI called upon to rally round the standard of legitimacy. Without stopping to inquire by what combination of circumstances, that call was obeyed, so fatally for the interests of liberty, it is a well known fact, that when the Austrian and Prussian cabinets succeeded in persuading the people that their political independence was again endangered, the long tried zeal and native enthusiasm of the^ Germans induced them to come forward with more alacrity than any other nation, form- ing a part of the disastrous coalition. In fact, the people of Germany did that almost spontaneously, to produce which it became necessary to exert all the influence of minis- terial corruption, and court intrigue in a return of Napoleon, see the Last Reign by Mr. Hob- house, the only work that has any pretensions to histo- rical accuracy, relative to that extraordinary period, which posterity will doubtless regard as one of the most important epochs in modern history : so that the able and enlightened author has conferred a favour on future times, and acquired no inconsiderable degree of literary celebrity, by this departure from the too general rule, which makes history little more than the vehicle of mis- representation, prejudice, and party spirit ! Xll neighbouring country; and yet, will the reader believe, that those most distinguished for their patriotism and public virtue, both in 1815, and at every former period of the revolutionary war, are the very men now marked out as the objects of jealousy and persecution! just as if the sovereigns of Ger- many had modelled their policy on that of the beloved Ferdinand of Spain !* From all that has transpired relative to German affairs during the last four years, it is scarcely necessary to add that ever since the treaty of Paris, concluded in 1815, up to the present moment, there has been one inces- sant cry for a representative system. The mo- dem wishes, like the ancient manners of this * The public papers have lately announced that the celebrated Colonel Massenbaeh has had his imprisonment for life commuted to one of fourteen years ! This is doubt- less considered as a great act of clemency on the part of his Prussian majesty ; but the public should also have been informed that this victim of tyranny and despotic power is nearly seventy years old! And what was this much injured and meritorious officer's crime ? That of a con- stitutional endeavour to improve the condition of his country ! Xlll nation require, that '' the princes shall act, but the people deliberate." Itn tamen ut ea quoque quorum penes plebem arbitrium est, apud principes per tractentur.^ While some of the minor sovereigns have been prevailed upon to gratify the united desires of their subjects, t the cabinet of Berlin has merely held out vague and indefinite promises, whereas that of Vienna is obstinately deaf * Tacitus de Moribus Germ. cap. xi. t It would be an injustice to the late ruler of France, were the editor to omit stating, that all the princes who have acceded to the prayers of the people on this vitally important matter, happen to be those whom Napoleon either raised to the kingly power, or distinguished by his special favour and protection. It is needless to say that these meritorious princes are the most deservedly popular in Germany ; nor has it escaped general notice, that the only two crowned heads in Germany, who merit the fare and envied appellation of the fathers of their people, are the kings of Saxony and Bavaria ! While, therefore, we admire the wisdom of those measures which are now operating so beneficially on the people in Bavaria, Wir- temburg and Baden, let us not be so illiberal as to deny Napoleon the praise of selecting such men; much less forget, that the only sovereigns who oppose the wishes of their subjects, have consigned the once powerful emperor to prison and proscription ! ! ! XIV to every appeal on the subject ; nay, it is moi^t sedulously occupied in checking the progress of knowledge and liberty at home, while it unceasingly continues to impoverish the devoted provinces of Italy abroad ! On perceiving how little could be expected from the foregoing policy, and warned by the proceedings of two successive congresses, at which all the members of the Holy Alliance assembled, without the adoption of one soli- tary measure in favour of popular freedom, the German public have latterly expressed themselves more loudly and distinctly than ever; but having no privilege of meeting for the discussion of political subjects, and re- dress of grievances ; whatever steps are resorted to, for the promotion of such ob- jects, must be taken in secret : hence the necessity of those associations which are so great a source of alarm at the present crisis. As these societies were originally established under the auspices of the respective govern- ments, and for the express purpose of secur- ing the external independence of Germany, XV it is by no mean§ likely, that the founders were less indifferent to internal freedom than adverse to foreign dominion. Taking it for granted, therefore, that associations vi^hich were composed of the most respectable and enlightened part of the nation, are ardently attached to the best interests of their country, and that they are impressed with a settled conviction of some improvement in the poli- tical system of Germany, being absolutely indispensible ; it is of importance to add, that their views are most warmly seconded by an able and independent press, conducted upon totally different principles to those which shackle and corrupt the editors of newspapers and periodical works in other countries. Besides, instead of being in the hands of venal writers, and notorious politi- cal apostates, many of the best papers and magazines of Germany are conducted by its most learned professors ; men no less distin- guished for their erudition and extensive knowledge, than their private virtue and unequivocal attachment to liberty. When XVI in addition to this circumstance, it is known that the above co-operation has an ahnost unlimited influence and direct communica- tion with the second and third classes; who ^ will attempt to maintain that the govern- ments of that truly enlightened country can ever hope to enforce a relinquishment of those just claims, which have been accorded to the people of France, notwithstanding all her disasters ? Were he justified in trespassing on the time of his readers, the Editor could adduce many more reasons drawn from the persever- ing nature, and dauntless enthusiasm of the whole people, to prove the impossibility of any combination on the part of the German cabinets, either intimidating the advocates of reform, or rejecting their claims. While enumerating a few of those advantages which are most calculated to ensure success to the cause of reform in Germany, the friends of li- berty in this country will be glad to hear, that although so despotic in the form and prac- tice of its government, the soldiery is a much XVll less isolated body than those of some other countries that enjoy an infinitely greater share of freedom in appearance : this arises from the regular army being usually filled up from the landwehr, or national militia ; the members of which, though trained to the use of arms from the age of eighteen^ re- main in the bosom of their families till call- ed on to serve in the line, or on local duties; and unlike the soldiers of some countries, who are estranged by long absence in distant colonies, generally return home at the end of the war, and continue to cultivate the endearing ties of domestic life, till a new con- test calls them once more into the field. Another great source of hope to the pro- moters of German liberty, may be traced to the fact of there being more unanimity and less party spirit amongst them than else- where. There exists between the crown and the people no privileged classes, who under pretext of su^Dporting rational freedom, are, in fact, the first obstacle to rational innova- tion : fortunately no such obstacles exist in Germany; and if the yoke of despotism XVlll be more galling there, than under a popu- lar form of government, the evil is not only more apparent, but more clearly under- stood ; while the people are sufficiently en- lightened to require anev^^ andimproved order of things. In this respect, the state of public opinion in Germany, bears a most striking contrast with that of England. In some countries, factions are often known to coalesce against the people, no less for the security of their personal interests, than from a wish to preserve that power which has been ob- tained by craft, and perpetuated by vio- lence in former days; but happily this event is not to be apprehended in Germany, where the favourite maxim of divide et impera, so successfully adopted in neighbouring states, cannot be resorted to with equal facility. From the foregoing brief notice of the sen- timents entertained by thepeople of Germany, and the causes which led to their also requir- ing an abrogation of all feudal dominion ; is it singular that the students should have imbibed the notions of their fathers and teachers ? Their ardour and determination XIX must arise from causes that can neither be prevented or controuled by government : a wiser system and more conciliatory measures, would, however, have long since tranquil- lized all parties; but what has been the course pursued by the cabinets of Vienna and Berlin? Such writers as Kotzebue, Stourdza, and Gentz,^ are employed, nay paid, to vilify and calumniate not only the students but their professors; because the former happened to have adopted the uni- versal wish of the nation, and the latter, so =* It is greatly to be deplored that this eloquent writer, who gained so large a share of celebrity by his work on the State of Europe, should have also lent himself to the views of despotism and injustice I for he could not avoid this lamentable error, in becoming the secre- tary of that congress, which has, by its impolitic decrees and tortuous policy, sown the seeds of many new trou- bles in Europe. But it has been the curse of our age, that men were found to condemn those measures in one ruler, which they not only applauded, but helped to bring about when adopted by another I Had not such men as Gentz, [for there are many like him,] left the people, and gone over to increase that power which was already too great, in what a very different state might not the public liberty of Europe have been at this day I b2 XX unlike the generality of their brethren in other places, are, almost without a single ex- ception, the strenuous supporters of rational liberty and unalienable rights of mankind ! When the natural tendency to enthusiasm in the German youths, heightened as it is by the abstruseness of those philosophical dogmas recently promulgated, and their intense application to study, is duly consi- dered,* it is by no means so very extraordi- ^ Four o'clock in the morning is the usual hour of a German student's commencing his studies ; these are con- tinued until the hour of dinner, and renewed till dark ; the rest of the evening being devoted to amusement, such as light reading and visiting friends. The author of a Tour, called " An Autumn on the Rhine," has given a very long and most unfavourable ac- count of the German university system, merely describing that of Heidelberg, as a specimen of all the rest. This volume had reached Frankfort during the Editor's stay there ; and all those with whom he conversed on the sub- ject, concurred in representing the above account as grossly exaggerated. They admitted, however, that the author's " Scandalous Chronicle^' relative to several instances of profligacy in high life, was correct to a limited extent ; adding, that it was not in the aristocracy of Germany, any more than in other European countries, travellers were to form an estimate of national character and virtue. XXI nary, that out of ten or fifteen thousand such young men, a few should be so irritated by the malignant provocations of hireling wri- ters, as to forget the obligations due to civil society and the laws ; but, while we pity and condemn the fanaticism which prompts men to regard assassination as a virtue, what shall be said of those, who, being intimately acquainted with the com- bustible materials they are called upon to handle, instead of endeavouring to neutra- lize them, make every effort to produce an explosion ? Amongst the unworthy subterfuges devised for the purpose of justifying arbitrary mea- sures, the ministerial pressof Germany has also taken great pains to prove that Sand had ac- complices. Howeverthismay answerthe views of despotism, and impose on public credulity for a time, none but the most ignorant as well as profligate of mankind, would dream of pro- pagating the monstrous supposition, of there being any political association, so abominably wicked, as to justify, much less encourage, xxu murder and assassination in the nineteenth century ! While, however, he deprecates an opinion so utterly disgraceful to the age, the writer of these remarks cannot help thinking it mainly incumbent on the govern- ments of Germany, maturely to reflect on the recent catastrophe ; for every circum- stance connected with the history and pro- ceedings of Sand, is pre-eminently calcula- ted to excite public astonishment : his edu- cation, amiable disposition, and unexcep- tionable character, all tend to make us pause and inquire into the cause of his having recourse to this act of vengeance : while they stimulate us to trace those gradations of thought by which the youthful enthusiast prevailed on himself to strike the final blow. Between the acting of a dreadful thing, And the first motion, all the interim is Like a phantasma, or a hideous dream ; The genius and'the mortal instruments Are then in council ; and the state of man. Like to a little kingdom suffers then The nature of an insurrection ! XXUl Although the whole subject is involved in a maze of inexplicable difficulty, it is not the less worthy of minute and careful examination ; for if, as a very shrewd Ger- man lately observed to the Editor, there are many thousand individuals amongst the youth of Germany, as totally indifferent to life as Sand and Lohning; who can say where the contagion of their example will end, or what will be the consequences to persons of a very different class to Kotzebue and Ibel?^ There are many events of daily * The following account of the attack on this gentle- man is taken from the Times newspaper, and tends so much to corroborate the Editor's arguments, that he hopes to be excused for giving it somewhat in detail. " Schwalbach (a mineral bath in the Duchy of Nassau, and two leagues from Mentz) has just been the theatre of a horrible event, which may be regarded as connected with that recently perpetrated by Sand, and which proves the fanaticism that reigns amongst the youths of Germany. A young man, son of an apothecary at Idstein, in Nassau, vN^here there is a collegiate establishment, persuaded him- self that he could render an essential service to his country, by ridding it of M. Ibel, president of the regency of Wis- bad, who enjoyed the confidence of the Duke, and, in consequeiice, he resolved to assassinate him. He found M. Ibel at Schwalbach, and aimed a blow at his face with XXIV occurrence, and those not unimportant either, calculated to guide our judgment with re- gard to public opinion, which pass away without exciting any thing more than tem- porary surprize. However, this revival of a practice that was thought not only merito- rious, but in some cases even honoured with a poignard. M. Ibel, who is tall and corpulent, and was not alarmed, seized the assassin, and disarmed him. — Whilst they were struggling, the murderer drew a pistol from his pocket, and attempted to discharge it, according to some, at M. Ibel, but others say at himself : the pistol, however, missed fire, the assassin was taken into custody, and probably justice will be speedily executed From subsequent information we learn that the assassin's name is Lohning : he studied at the university of Heidelburg, and only left it eighteen months ago. He served as a volun- teer during the last war of invasion." — Frankfort, July Ath, 1819. Another account, dated on the following day, states : *' The President of the Regency of Nassau has the repu- .tation of being an able statesman ; but arbitrary fiscal measures are imputed to him. It is affirmed that previous to his aiming the blow at M. Ibel, the young apothe- cary reproached him with being the cause of his country's misfortunes : fortunately the attempt only produced a slight wound. On his first examination, he confessed the fact, alleging for his motive a wish to rid his country of a man so injurious to the public weal." Having been transferred to prison, it does not appear that the interrogatories which followed have led to any JiXV an apotheosis, in the best days of Greece and Rome, though justly exei^rated in modern times, is a tremendous epoch in the annals of civilization, and opens a field of inquiry deeply interesting to the whole human race. Lightly as some people, particularly those with whom the '' solemn plausibilities of the world^^ are exploded, may be induced to disclosures. And that he has preserved the same mistaken greatness of mind, as his predecessor, will be seen by the following account of his death, very recently received from Neraburg, and dated July 23d. "All the precautions that were taken, could not prevent . Lohning from executing his design of putting an end to his life in prison. At first he seemed resolved to starve himself to death, but in this he did not succeed. On the nineteenth of July he found means to break a glass un- perceived, and to open an artery in the wrist with a piece of it : while the blood was flowing from the wound he held his hand concealed under the bed quilt, so that the circumstance seems not to have been remarked, till the blood had flowed in such abundance as to find its way to the floor. Uncertain whether the opening of the artery, considering the care with which he was watched, could remain concealed long enough to make his death certain, Lohning had contrived to swallow several pieces of glass, when the guard on seeing the blood flow from the delinquent's bed, gave the alarm, and called for help ; Lohning lay already in violent convulsions, and every assistance was afforded, but in vain, as he expired before day-light." XXVI treat the subject,* the Editor is too deeply impressed with a sense of its importance, to let the occasion escape without venturing a few more observations, which are left for more acute reasoners either to dispute or illustrate. It has been already hinted, that the most civilized and moral nations of antiquity regarded assassination as an act of heroic virtue, provided it was inflicted on the ene- mies of public liberty. Need it be added, that every modern nation has emerged from barbarity, in proportion as it has attained to the imitation of those glorious models; and that in every enlightened coun- try, the study of the ancient writers is the basis of liberal education, and the surest characteristic of a gentleman? If, according to the well known definition, history be no other than philosophy teach- ■* Soon after the death of Kotzebue, some wag took the trouble of writing a threatening letter to the editor of an English Journal, well known for its insensate violence against the people ; when lo, and behold, a leading article appeared next day, in which this brave mercenary boldly defied all the daggers of his enemies. Perhaps a cudgel would not be misapplied ! XXVll ing by example; the wisdom inspired by the examples of ancient history, must be allowed to require some discretion in its application to actual conduct. A Timoleon, a Scaevola, a Brutus, if they teach any thing, teach that an invasion of public liberty, is a private wrong, which every individual is called upon by the noblest principles of his nature to redress by his own right hand : and lest the example of the patriot should be thought too weak, for the encouragement of such virtue, the precept of the sage and of the lawgiver, add fresh incitement to the aspiring student. Ovid is not a more instruc- tive master in the art of love, than Cicero in the duties of patriotism ; but, the change in manners and government has not affected the credit of the voluptuary : although a quotation from '' the best man of all anti- quity ^^^ as Dr. Middleton called him, is suffi- cient to stamp a writer an assassin . A states- man and a scholar could at least find no better name for the anonymous monitor who lately reminded him that the second father of Rome declared the destruction of a XXVlll V tyrant the most truly beautiful, the most beneficial, the most glorious of all human actions !* That such lessons may find wil- ling pupils; that examples such as those with which history abounds, may excite imitations amongst the readers of any coun- try, and more particularly the youthful readers, is far from wonderful : indeed it is rather to be wondered at, that the practical good sense of modern times has inculcated the paradox, that such writings are to be studied without any view to individual ap- plication, and that such examples are at the same time to be admired and rejected ! The students of Germany are bred up amidst systems of philosophy, not a little sublimated and abstruse ; and they inherit from their ancestors, a species of enthusiasm not exactly expressed by any other language than their owii. That the study of classical writers should have had a primary effect in giving a direction to the new sentiment on public liberty, generated amongst our nor- * Quam sitrepiilchrum, beneJQcio gratum, fama glo- riosum, tyranoiim occidere. XXIX theni neighbours, there cannot be a doubt; and that Sand was impelled to the dreadful deed, by a fatal emulation of ancient virtue, may increase our pity for the man, though it will not diminish our horror for the crime. The rarity of such instances of delusion, can be attributed only to the christian reli- gion, and to the improvement in the condi- tion of mankind, which has made even des- potism itself amenable to public opinion, and thus disarmed individual vengeance. When, however, by some unhappy per- version of intellect, the love of freedom, and the attachment to the soil, which the ancients teach us to be the first of all human charac- teristics, seems to point to the interposition of a single arm ; when religion seems to identify such interposition, with the ven- geance which God tells us is his own; when all public redress seems unattain- able, then, indeed, the ordinary barriers of passion are removed, and the self-fancied christian hero devotes himself to crime with a resolution such as never animated the breast of a Roman patriot ; when motives of XXX supposed piety alone, have been often for- merly sufficient to arm even the professors of piety themselves against the lives of exalt- ed individuals, the union of patriotism, as a passion, and of learning, as a principle, must add tenfold heat to the fever of the brain. It is clear that Sand imagined that redress was to be obtained no otherwise than by the mode adopted by himself. AVith this persua- sion, it was unnecessary to refer to the prac- tice of ancient times, for an excuse which modern manners will not tolerate. For if the cannon is the last argument of tyrants, the dagger is the first resource of slaves ! A reform, whether in Turkey, Russia, or Swe- den, has ever in our days begun by the mur- der of the sovereign. Where a sense of injus- tice finds no intermediate vent in public dis- cussion, either by voice or pen, it flies at once to the last remedy : and such are the signs of the times, and such is the conduct of some governments, that the editor must boldly proclaim his apprehension, that the action which was the universal praise of an- tiquity, and has been the triumphant practice XXXI in some modern emergencies,will not be con- fined to LoHNiNG and Sand. Charlotte Cor- day was almost deified: even Ankerstroom was called the Brutus of his country ; and the destroyers of Paul became the ministers of his successor ! How fortunate was it that the last-named student sought no higher vic- tim ! The same perverse application of the examples of antiquity and texts of scrip- ture, to a difficulty, for the solution of which he had even some modern authorities, might have directed the dagger of Sand to the heart rather than to the hand ; to the master rather than to the minister ! It is indeed not surprising that the student should have pictured to himself no monster more hideous than the deliberate apologist for slavery ; the perverter of that literature which was meant for the consolation of mankind, into the curse of humanity ; the traitor who, forgetful of his own fame, of the * honour and happiness of his own kindred and country, had become the venal pander to foreign ambition ! The insignificance of the individual obstacle, was not remarked by XXXll him : it was placed close to his eye, and ' however small, obstructed the sight of all distant objects, whatever their size and im- portance. But the writer ^of these remarks thinks it his bounden duty to assert publicly, that he anticipates from the present state of popular feeling in Germany still more awful catas- trophes, than the fall of a miserable, pensioned penman. Could his feeble voice be heard, he would exhort the masters of mankind, no longer to engage or persevere in the hopeless task of degenerating that portion of the hu- man race committed to their guidance and care. '' The spirit has stirred upon the wa- ters.^' Let them rather be the creators of light than the renewers of darkness. Instead of employing a parricide to poison the foun- tains of truth, let the monarch of one quarter of our hemisphere, multiply the channels, and disperse the salubrious stream, through his mighty empire : his soil will become more rich, and his subjects more vigorous, more worthy the dominion of an enlightened sovereign. Let him recollect, that the man XXXlll who is faithless to his country will hardly be true to him ; and above all let him not for; get that the fatal enthusiasm, which has made a murderer of a virtuous man, is of that kind, which penetrates the palace of the prince, with the same ease as the cottage of the peasant, and which justice and GENEROSITY ALONE CAN DISARM ! ! ! To suppose that any change in the disci- pline or regulations of the universities would have the smallest effect in checking that irresistible spirit of freedom, in which the two late horrible deeds really originated, is amongst those fallacies which people like to adopt, when they are either too indolent or timid to examine the true source of human events. It is, in fact, demonstrably evident, that new and extraordinary principles (not the offspring of poverty and vice, as some would insinuate, but arising from a prodi- gious advancement in civilization,) are gene- rated all over Europe : the natural and ob- vious result is one universal cry for ameliora- tion and reform, from the rock of Gibraltar c XXXIV to Bergen; from Venice to the Hebrides! How melancholy to reflect that as yet this cry has been almost uniformly resisted by those authorities, the permanence of whose power must ultimately depend on their ac- quiescence in popular feeling ! Happy! thrice happy are those rulers, who, rising above the selfish prejudices of party, and breaking through the trammels of fac- tion, shall avert the threatened storm, ere it overwhelms the oppressor and the oppressed in one common ruin ! It has been justly ob- served, that we live in perilous times ; and it is equally true, that unexampled proofs of virtue and patriotism can alone restore the European equilibrium. There are some dis- eases in which palliatives prolong the pa- tient's life, merely to render his dissolution more certain and painful. A great deal has been lately said relative to the prevailing taste for republicanism in Oermany. It cannot certainly be denied that a very strong feeling in favour of that form of government which gives full scope XXXV to the energies of a nation, and opens a career to individual merit, does really exist; but who will attempt to say that this feeling is confined to Germany ? While fully sensible of the inconvenience that sometimes arises^ from the toleration of privileged orders, the people are not unmindful that a republic (like that of North America for instance) can be as rapacious, regardless of the rights of nations, and unprincipled, as the most des- potic monarchy that ever existed ; and if they wish to amalgamate the two forms somewhat more generally, the Germans are not such novices in the science of govern- ment, as to be ignorant, that were all the power of the state confided to an aristocracy of talent, it would not be less overbearing than the most galling oppression exercised by one of wealth and corruption. Judging from what the writer has seen, whatever changes the population of Germany feel anxious to effect, there is a general desire to avoid the evils of democracy, on the one hand, and the equally pernicious tendency of monarchical despotism on the other. XXXVl Although the peasantry and manufacturers of Germany feel their cJondition might be rendered infinitely better, if that constant opposition of interests, and harrassing ob- struction to commerce, created by the present divided state of the country, and grasping avidity of some of the governments were removed ; they are neither totally in want of employment, or reduced to the last extre- mity of distress : if they were, the probable consequences are too dreadful to contem- plate ! Whenever the circumstances of the times give rise to such a state in any class of the community, there is no sacrifice which a wise and provident government ought not to make towards remedying the evil ; for if it is of that description, which leaves no rational hope of being, as it were, sponta- neously removed by more prosperous times, the disease must spread, and may finally endanger the whole body politic. And here it may not be irrelevant to repeat the maxim so frequently laid down by Mr. Burke, that the multitude, in all countries, are patient to a certain point ; that ill-usage may rouse DHIVERSITY XXX VU their indignation, and hurry them into ex- cesses ; but that the original fault is in the government. Instead, therefore, of keeping large stand- ing armies on foot, devising new modes of punishment, and adopting measures of un- constitutional coercion, every real friend of humanity and good order must wish to see the Austrian and Prussian cabinets come forward, and having ascertained the wishes of that class, from which all political power emanates, cordially co-operate in the best means of re-establishing those first prin- ciples, to a departure from which, may be traced all the evils under which the nations of Europe continue to groan. According to the public papers, it appears, that another meeting of German diplomatists and ministers, is about to take place at Carls- bad : if true, this proves that the cabinets are not totally indifferent to their danger ; but they have a most difficult and delicate task to perform. This new assemblage ought to keep in mind, that the eyes of all Europe will be upon it, asi they were directed towards XXXVlll the last congress at Aix la Chapelle; and that if it separates like the above, without some specific measure in favour of reform, the final crisis will only be thereby hastened. Experience is, however, against our indulging in any very sanguine hopes upon the sub- ject ; for unfortunately such meetings have invariably tended rather to abridge than en- large the stock of European liberty. With respect to the German press, while the degraded part of it is occupied in goad- ing the already perturbed minds of the dis- contented on to despair, and brawling about the wisdom of ministers, the rights of legi- timacy, together with a great deal of still more unintelligible jargon ; as well as using arguments, which are above all others calcu- lated to make the popular discontent ripen into revolution ; it becomes the sacred duty of those who advocate the rights of the peo- ple, to persevere in expostulating with the respective governments, in order that the latter may prevent anarchy by acts of neces- sary justice, rather than precipitate it, by measures of coercion, that will, most assur- XXXIX edly, aggravate without curing the disease. It is in such times as these that the real friends of the country are known : so that when those who have, on former occasions, advocated the principles of freedom, join in the abortive effort to stifle the irresistible voice of complaint, and stigmatize the cries of the people to be heard, we may safely ex- claim in the language of our immortal bard: Let no such men be trusted I If there ever was a period, when the maxim of '' measures, and not men,^^ was essential to the repose and happiness of Europe, who can deny, that it has now arrived in Ger- many ? And if we may be allowed to compare "great things with small," is there no analogy between the present times, and those which preceded the French revolution ? It is true, indeed, that neither Germany or any other country may labour under those intolerable abuses which rendered that political tragedy in a manner a physical consequence ; but is it not worth our while to inquire, whether the Tiers etat of Germany do not feel the many remains of feudal aristocracy existing in x\ that country, as keenly/ as the same class did in France ? By a parity of reasoning, may not the words of an acute observer of those causes which led to the catastrophe, be repeated with more than ordinary propriety, while contemplating the present state of some countries ? In summing up his excel- lent account of those abuses which produced the revolution, Mr. Arthur Young very justly remarks : '^ The people will always suffer much and long, before they are effectually roused : nothing, therefore, can kindle the flame,' but such oppressions of some classes or order in the society, as give able men the opportunity^ of seconding the general mass. Discontent is contagious, and will soon diffuse itself around; and if the government take NOT WARNING IN TIME, IT IS ALONE AN.^WER- ABLE FOR ALL THE BURNINGS, PLUNDERINGS, DEVASTATION AND BLOODSHED THAT FOLLOW!" London, August 10, 1819. Although the numerous victims, whom the wild and vindictive passions of mankind immo- late on the altars of envy or revenge, jealousy or fanaticism, are seldom regarded amidst the tu- mult and anxieties of this busy scene, with more than a momentary surprise, and transient regret ; it not unfrequently becomes the province of his- tory, to pause and meditate on some startling and ominous exception to the general rule. Such was the tragical end of Augustus Von Kotzebue, an event, not only of awful import to Germany, but well calculated to strike, with the impres- siveness of a monitory lesson, upon the public mind of all Europe, Kotzebue was a scholar of no mean pretensions ; a writer at once voluminous and popular, he was consequently not without a certain degree of in- fluence over the opinions of his fellow country- men and contemporaries : of late years, however, his name had acquired an adventitious and more questionable title to celebrity. Either from an ill- fated conviction, or a self-interested subserviency, he zealously espoused, and took a very active part in supporting political principles, adverse to that spirit of independence which burst forth in Germany, after its deliverance from foreign aggression in 1814. Hence it was, that the prostitution of his pen to the views of kings and ministers, while it secured to him the fruits of patronage and wealth, raised up against him a host of incensed and determined enemies, and in the end sealed his melancholy fate. Shortly to develope and trace the causes which have generated in the hearts of the German youth, such an implacable hatred to the advocate and apologist of despotic power, as to have driven a young man of otherwise gentle habits and kindly affections, with a phrenetic impulse into the com- mission of an act that cannot under any circum- stances cease to be a crime, and against which the offender's generous soul must at first have revolt- ed with unspeakable abhorrence, will be the ob- ject of the following pages ; for though public curiosity may have been gratified in part, by the various and sometimes contradictory accounts that appeared shortly after the circumstance occurred, it is no less due to the present times than to pos- h terity, that a faithful narrative of such extraor- dinary events, should be put upon record, in a shape less perishable than that which the columns of a newspaper are able to embrace. The young student of theology, Charles Louis Sand, who enacted the Brutus of this terrific drama, was born of highly respectable parents at Weinseidel in the margraviate of Baireuth. Such w^as the modesty of his demeanour, and mildness of his disposition, from his earliest years, that the friends of the family, and the teachers under whom he was placed, almost equalled his parents in the warmth of their affection for him. His per- son was engaging, his manners agreeable, and the uniform propriety of his conduct in the highest degree examplary. His remarkable do- cility, and the eager thirst for knowledge with which he was inspired, produced in him a frame of mind, most happily adapted to the study of divinity, and while at the schools, his correct deportment, and assiduous application more than justified the sanguine expectations of his family and friends ; so that there was not only a fair promise of his becoming a faithful minister of the gospel, but a distinguished ornament of his na- tional church. Arrived at an age for reflection. Sand viewed with mingled feelings of sorrow and indignation the wretched condition of his country, at once b2 the theatre of foreign invasion and domestic tyranny ; while his mind dwelt with unceasing solicitude upon the means of achieving the re- demption, and securing the liberties of Germany, objects above all others dear to the hearts of her native youth. No wonder then, that in 1815, we find him following the standard of Austria, in common with many thousands of young patriots, who, roused by the interested reports every where circulated, that the repose and liberty of Europe were threatened by the return of Napo- leon from Elba, hastened to obey the artful ap- peal which the cabinet of Vienna made to their public spirit and patriotism. When, however, the struggle between France, fighting in defence of an imprescriptible right, to live under the sove- reign of her own choice, and the allied monarchs, terminated in the field of Waterloo, Sand re- turned to his quiet and affectionate home, carry- ing with him unqualified testimonials of approba- tion from his superiors, and the warm regard of his companions in arms. But it was not long, ere the subject of our memoir had ample cause to repent that he drew his sword in the cause of those, whom no pledge, however sacred, could bind, no service, however zealous, could propitiate in favour of the just claims of the loyal and suffer- ing people who had so often fought and bled for the safety of their thrones ! Ye men, who pour your blood for kings as wafer ; What have they given your children in return ? A heritage of servitude and woes. A blindfold bondage, where your hire is blows!* He remained but a short time with his family, and then hastened to resume the course of his stu- dies, which were prosecuted with unabated ardour at the universities of Erlangen, Tubengen, and ,Jena. Every account communicated respecting Sand, while passing through these excellent se- minaries of learning, tends to establish a high opinion of his talents and diligence as a scholar, and of his unimpeachable morality as a man. — It was at the second named place that those who were more particularly intimate with the young enthusiast, first observed his character to have assumed a sombre and deeply meditative cast. — According to their accounts, he seemed to be con- stantly holding a painful and anxious communion with his own thoughts. This melancholy dispo- sition took at Jena, a still darker hue, arising most probably from the peculiar signs of the times ; and it was noticed that the agitation of his * See Lord Byron's ode to fallen Venice, one of the most spirit- ed and beautiful efforts of that extraordinary poet's prolific muse. But I differ from his lordship's opinion that " there is no hope for nations,'''' though who can hesitate to subscribe to his splendid illustration of the Roman maxim, Malim inquietam libertatem QUAM QUIETUM SERVITIUM ! — Ed. mind, always increased, whenever he met with any of those anti-national doctrines so vehemently advocated by Kotzebue in his weekly journal then publishing at Weimar. The above multifarious writer after experienc- ing those vicissitudes of fortune and situation, which a character of such habitual levity and ex- treme presumption could hardly hope to have escaped, upon attaining, in a certain degree, the means of independence, resigned his appointment of consul general in Russia, and removed from St. Petersburgh to Weimar, where he made his appearance without any official or ostensible em- ployment. He lost no time, however, in declar- ing war against the discipline of the universities, and conduct of the professors in most of them ; men, who in these days of political apostacy and courtly servility, have never ceased to advance the cause of true learning, or forgotten those principles of eternal justice and freedom, upon which the stability of governments and happiness of civilized society so mainly depend. Having announced the intention of retiring to his native place simply as a votary of the muses, his recep- tion was such as a private individual and well known literary character might have naturally expected ; but what was the surprise of the public on his displaying an imperial Russian patent, con- stituting him the accredited diplomatic agent of that court. By subsequent information it was, indeed, discovered that he received a yearly sti- pend of fifteen thousand roubles for transmitting extracts from the newspapers and other publica- tions connected with passing events in Germany, and particularly of those writers whose views did not coincide with those of the Russian cabinet.—- He was also entrusted with the duty of making reports directly to the Emperor Alexander on the state of literature and public opinion generally. The more effectually to fulfil the objects of his mission, and perhaps anxious to leave nothing untried that was calculated to meet the wishes of the Emperor, M. Kotzebue established a weekly literary journal, in which he not only became the judge and censor of all the works he thought worthy of notice, but expressed his opinions on politics, public men^ and the predominant spirit of the age, in a manner, that the public in general considered as extremely partial and illiberal. — Amongst other charges, the imperial counsellor was openly accused of carrying on a marked hos- tility to freedom of discussion by the press, liberal ideas in politics, and especially to the wishes of the people, so often and unequivocally expressed for the adoption of a representative system. Although his doctrines might have met the ap- probation of a few, for there are panders to powei", and traitors to their fellow citizens in every coun- try, this conduct of M. Von Kotzebue did not fail to draw down the indignation of a much greater number, more particularly the German youth, who have so long sighed for the political emancipation of their country. It is doubtless in the above very pernicious application of his lite- rary powers, that we are to look for the cause of that catastrophe which terminated his existence. M. Kotzebue's conduct excited the more surprise, from the well known fact of his having formerly often stood forth as the enemy of oppression. Not satisfied with opposing the political enfranchise- ment of Germany, he took the utmost pains to re- present the enlightened friends of liberty and the greatest ornaments of the universities, as revolu- tionary demagogues. Full of that overweening confidence, which is but too often the attendant on popularity among authors as v^ell as statesmen, he came forward armed with sword and buckler, vainly imagining that his former fame and present protec- tion, insured a certain victory over his opponents. Elated with this flattering prospect, it also oc- curred to M. Kotzebue, that the contest would not only afford him an opportunity of getting into favour with other sovereigns, but that still greater honours and additional rewards might follow. The first glaring exposure of his system, was occasioned either by the awkwardness or treachery of a transcriber, who consigned a written paper; intended as one of the reports to his imperial master, and in the hand-writing of Kotzebue, to an opponent of the latter^ in which the Court Counsellor Luden, of Jena, and his journal, the Nemesis, were represented as '' two of the most detestable instruments of hell !" Upon the appear- ance of a literal copy of this tirade^ in Luden's paper, the dramatist boldly acknowledged it for his own ; but he at the same time availed himself of his Russian patent, for the purpose of laying an injunction on the further publication of the Ne- mesis, and followed up this measure by charging the editor with theft, and a breach of the laws of diplomacy, for publishing a communication in his hand-writing, addressed to the Emperor of Russia. The interdiction was, however, totally ineffectual, as this disgraceful bulletin was already copied into Wieland's Patriot, and also into the Tris, another literary paper, from a proof sheet of the Nemesis, by which it soon found a place in many others, and was thus in a few days disseminated throughout Germany. When a legal inquiry was instituted shortly after, the faculty of Weizberg amended the ver- dict of the Leipsic court of judicature, against the obnoxious parties, Luden, Wieland, and Oken, as to the verdict of public opinion, that had al- ready been unequivocally pronounced against M. Kotzebue. No wonder, therefore, if these trans- 10 gressions recalled the memory of his former errors, particularly the scandalous libel of " Doctor Bahrt with the iron forehead,^'' which he published in 1790. This outrage on public decorum was greatly aggravated by the author's affixing the estimable name of Knigge to it, with a view of screening himself from that indignation which he knew must overtake the original compiler, if dis- covered. This unwarrantable precaution did not, however, answer the desired purpose, and when the work was on the point of being brought home to the real author, the second subterfuge of Kot- zebue was still less to be applauded than the first, for he prevailed on a friend, the chancery counsel- lor Kerkenberg of Hanover, an otherwise respecta- ble character, to acknowledge it. This gave rise to a persecution and suffering on the part of the victim, which ended in the loss of his reason, and the total ruin of his family, hitherto independent and pros- perous ! His recent conduct having engendered a host of enemies on every side, he was attacked by nearly all the newspapers of Germany, and be- came an object at which the finger of scorn was pointed from a thousand different directions, until he at length determined to change his position ; for this purpose, it was given out that M. Kotze- bue intended to try the waters of Pyrmont : ac- cordingly, in the summer of 1818 he left Weimar, 11 accompanied by his family, and passing through Frankfort on the Main, finally determined on settling at Manheim, where his literary and diplo- matic labours were renewed with increased acti- vity. The most violent philippics were repeated against his opponents, the abuse of the freedom of the press, assemblies of the states, gymnastic ex- ercises, &c. ; but that which principally tended to work up and irritate the German students was, the concluding sentence to his strictures on the tumult at Gottingen.^ It was as follows : " Truly * Previous to the disturbance, which led to the studies being suspended, and the students being dispersed, for a time at least, there were forty professors and twelve hundred students from all parts of Germany assembled there. The mode of instruction, consisted of lectures from the professors, and private tuition. The system of study being divided into four departments, those of divinity, jurisprudence, medicine, and philosophy ; each of these branched off into the minor branches dependent on them, and had their respective lecturers. As the cause of those dissentions, which made so great a noise at the time, may be forgotten by the reader, while it proves what a prevalent disposition there is to exaggerate trifles into matters of importance, the following ex- tract of a letter which appeared in the Morning Chronicle, soon after the fracas took place, will serve to refresh his memory on the subject. " Gottingen, July 28, 1818. " The troubles in Gottingen derive their origin in part from an old grudge of the citizens against the students, in consequence of which, the latter played all sorts of tricks to tease the former ; such as upsetting during the night, all the butchers blocks in the shambles, &c. On the 1 1th instant, a student passing by the sham- bles, accidentally threw down a child, on which a journeyman 12 every father who casts an anxious look on his son, would thank that government which set the ex- ample of banishing from its universities the unbri- dled and capricious will of the students : for in this so called academical liberty^ more good heads and hearts are ruined than formed/' &c. While at Jena, Sand was not only a witness to, but a participator in the literary feud to which the butcher ran out and struck him ; not being able to obtain redress, he and his comrades proceeded to the house of Krische, master of the offender, and storined it, breaking the windows, shutters, &c. On the 20th, the deputy of the government. Counsellor Falke, came from Hanover, followed by a hundred and fifty huzzars to restore order ; they occupied the streets, and bore the insults of the stu- dents, who were greatly incensed at this military measure, with the utmost patience. But the students having proceeded to acts of violence, the huzzars attacked them with drawn sabres, and wounded five. This increased instead of diminishing the tumult, and all possible measures were taken to prevent a junction of the apprentices and students, which would have made matters still worse. The next day, a detachment of Landwehr came and paraded the town in rank and file. Upon this the students retired, and resolved to go to the Hessian town of Wilzenhausen, some miles from Gottingen." The above details are particTilarly v^ell worth the reader's at- tention. For there is nothing more likely than that this injudi- cious and impolitic employment of the military, w^here the occasion only required the interference of the civil authorities, tended greatly to inflame the minds of the German students, already dis- satisfied with the political situation of their country. It is thus that mere trifles lead to the most important consequences. But Englishmen will not fail to regret that Hanover should be the first part of Germany in which this unconstitutional application of the military should have commenced. — Ed. 13 violent comments of Kotzebue, gave rise. Hav- ing with many other students then present fought for the best interests of Germany, he dreaded no- thing so much, as the probability of that writer's principles and doctrines tending to mislead both the Princes of Europe and the public ; by which the dearly earned triumphs gained during the pre- ceding contests would be bartered for perpetual bondage. As the unshaken and ardent friend jpf truth, it was therefore natural for Sand to look with indignation on that part of the imperial coun- sellor's writings, which reviled and calumniated those teachers and professors, whom he knew to be irreproachable both in morals and character ; nor, when the subject happened to be discussed by his companions, did he hesitate to express the abhor- rence in which he held " the foreign stipendiary and political apostate," as Kotzebue was now de- signated. This extraordinary young man was thus led on from one reflection to another, until his enthusiastic imagination led him to suppose, that the sacrifice of a mercenary journalist would contribute to the liberation of the whole German people from oppression. To such a pitch of impetu- ous energy was he carried on some occasions, that Sand would often conclude a long comment on the dangerous consequences of tolerating any writer, who had thus set the liberties of his country at nought, by observing, it became an imperative 14 duty, and even a virtue to punish them ; adding with an air of the greatest apparent composure, that having after long reflection overcome the dreadful contest between his love of country, and sense of religion, he was himself prepared to strike the blow, often exclaiming in atone of hysterical exultation — Duloe et decorum est pro patria mori ! From the characteristic mildness of his nature, these proofs of a perturbed spirit were considered as the offspring of momentary anger ; for little did his hearers imagine their amiable and enlighten- ed companion had already determined to put the bloody purpose into almost immediate execution ! Having concluded his course of study, he left Jena early on the 9th of March of the present year, it is supposed on foot, and very scantily sup- plied with money, without taking leave of any one, or communicating his intentions. He merely assumed the old German costume, and reached Manheim on the morning of the 23d, having re- mained one day at the Swan Inn, Frankfort, and passed several more with a friend in the same city*. * Another account (for as generally happens on such occasions there were many) states that Sand left Jena on the morning of the 9th, that from thence he proceeded to Eriangen, where he pro- cured a passport for the borders of the Main ; setting off from this place on the 18th, it is added that he arrived post on the evening of the 22d at Larch, five leagues from Manheim, on the right bank of the Rhine. At Larch, he hired a peasant's cart, and arrived at 16 Taking up his abode at a hotel called the Vine- yard^ in Manheim, he announced himself as a student from Erlangen^ adding that his name was Henricks. Soon after his arrival Sand inquired where M. Von Kotzebue lived, and also asked for a preacher named Karbaoh, who, he said, knew his family. Unalterable in the resolution he had formed, and doubtless satisfied that he was about to perform a meritorious and holy act of duty. Sand presented himself at Kotzebue's door twice on the morning of his arrival, stating that he had letters to deliver from Weimar, where the mother of Kotzebue still lives, though at the ad- vanced age of eighty-two. As the Counsellor was in the habit of devoting his mornings to lite- rary pursuits, and going out at twelve o'clock, the stranger could not gain admission. Being told to return in the evening, the usual time of receiving visitors. Sand withdrew to the inn, and dined very heartily at the public table : here he met with a village curate, with whom he passed above two Manheim on the 23d, about ten in the morning. One of the nume- rous correspondents stated, that on descending into the street he exclaimed, Fivat Teutonia! opus consummatus est I Sfc, It was also added that a short time previous to the event, Kotzebue had determined to retire to Russia again. — The editor has, howf ver, good reason to rely on the account in the text, and it is the one generally received in Germany. — As to the paper purporting to be a sentence of death, it is a manifest fabrication, and that of the most clumsy description. 16 hours in the most cheerful and animated conver- sation. Taking leave of his companion a little before five o'clock, he proceeded towards the scene of action, and although he joined several ladies, who were also going to visit Madame Kot- zebue, it did not disconcert him in the least, or tend in any manner to alter his design. Having rung the bell, the door was immediately opened, upon which, Sand bowing, suffered the ladies to enter before him, and they were accordingly shewn into the drawing-room. Remaining in the hall till his name was announced, the servant soon returned, and led the stranger into an adjoining apartment, where, he said, the Counsellor would come in a few moments. When the company arrived, M. Kotzebue was seated with his family, and after the usual compliments had been ex- changed, it is confidently reported, that while holding his youngest son, then scarcely two months old, up in his arms, he observed in a tone of great emotion, and turning to the ladies, ^'^ I was exactly the age of this child when my father died !" It is supposed that- Sand employed the short interval of being left alone, in preparing to strike the meditated blow, for scarcely had the unsus- pecthig victim entered the apartment, when the infuriated antagonist, with irresistible dexterity, plunged a long poignard into his body : the blow 17 was directed with such force^ that the weapon penetrated the fourth rib on the left side, inflict- ing a mortal wound on the heart. The unfortu- nate sufferer most probably attempted to disarm his assailant, and after a momentary struggle, in which the agonies of death must have given additional strength to the dying man, both fell to the ground : here Sand was soon enabled to recover the use of his arms, and to prevent the possibility of failure in his sanguinary purpose, three more wounds were inflicted by the minister of vengeance ; one of these, perforating the breast, entered the lungs. Upon hearing the fall, followed by the groans of M. Kotzebue, a servant hurried to the fatal spot, and found his master extended on the floor, weltering in his blood ; while the wretched per- petrator knelt by with the dagger in his hand, coolly contemplating the prostrate victim ! The cries of the servant having at length alarmed the ladies, they rushed into the room, and with frantic screams beheld the horrid spectacle ! The Coun- sellor had by this time lost much blood, and was breathing his last; Sand continuing to grasp the reeking weapon, and unmoved by what was passing around, steadfastly gazed on the bleeding corse. Some of the affrighted party now called from the windows for help and a surgeon, while Emily, the eldest daughter of M. Kotzebue, aided 18 by his valet de chambre, succeeded in removing the dead body of her father into another apart- ment. Whilst the family and visitors manifested such consternation and woe, the perpetrator seemed alone calm and collected, quietly to await his doom ; but ere the wished for succour arrived, he rose and descended the stair-case, exclaiming in a loud voice, '^ the traitor has fallen !" On his reaching the outer door, the street was already thronged with a large concourse of people ; rush- ing violently through the crowd, he threw a hasty and indignant glance back at the windows where several Voices still cried murder ! Then raising the poignard in one hand, while a written paper was observed in the other, he vociferated, " I am the MURDERER ! BUT IT IS THUl^ THAT ALL TRAITORS SHOULD DIE !" Even at this awful moment, so impressive were his gestures and language, that no one present attempted either to seize or disarm him. Immediately after this terrific exclamation, the enthusiast knelt down with an air of great calmness and solemnity, first looking towards the house in which the bloody deed had just been perpetrated, he clasped his hands, and raising his eyes to heaven said, '' I thank thee, O God ! for HAVING permitted ME, SUCCESSFULLY, TO FULFIL THIS ACT OF JUSTICE !" From such expressions as these, and the following sentence inscribed on the 19 paper which he held up, ^^ Death-blow fof Augustus Von Kotzebue, in the name of virtue !" the suspicion of his derangement was fully con- firmed ; a circumstance that did not fail to excite public astonishment, at his being so quietly suffer- ed to retain the dagger, for no sooner had the last invocation terminated,than tearing open the clothes that covered his breast, he repeatedly plunged the weapon into his own bosom, causing several deep wounds : he immediately fell to the ground and remained until the magistracy, who were by this time apprized of the tragical event, gave direc- tions for his removal to the public hospital, where his wounds were carefully bound up. It will be readily imagined that this shocking occurrence excited an extraordinary sensation all over Manheim, and this was greatly heightened by the impossibility of tracing it to some specific cause. An official intimation of the circumstances attending it, was instantly sent ofi* to Carlesruhe ; and a special courier despatched to Jena, charged with a request to the official authorities there, to seal up all Sand's papers, which was duly obeyed on the evening of the 25th. But nothing was found amongst them calculated to throw the smallest light on the apparently mysterious ques- tion, if we except the commencement of a letter, which stated, " I go to meet my fate — the scaf- fold!" There was not the least trace of any c2 20 accomplices to be found in his writings ; Korner's poems lay open on his desk, and seemed to be the last book he had read previous to his departure. A commission of two members of the government atWeimar^requiredfor the examination of the affair at Jena, were also appointed. In the hospital every attention was paid to the condition of Sand; pursuant to an order from the highest authority at Carlesruhe, directing that every means which the faculty could devise, should be adopted to save the culprit's life, in the hope that his reco- very would lead to some important confessions. On recovering from the fainting fits occasioned by excessive loss of blood, the first effort of Sand was to tear the dressings and bandages from his breast : his attendants found great difficulty in preventing the success of this attempt, and they were even obliged to obstruct the use of his hands, a measure that produced a repetition of the swoonings. After an attentive examination, the medical men said, that although the poignard did not penetrate the heart, the lungs were so severely wounded, as scarcely to admit a possi- bility of the patient's recovery. They indulged a hope, however, that his life would be preserved for a short time, and that he might acquire suffi- cient strength, to enable him to make intelligible replies to any questions the magistrates were desirous of putting to him. In fact, he did reco- 21 ver his speech next day, but only employed it to ejaculate a few prayers : it was also remarked that he bore his sufferings, which were of the most agonizing description, with a degree^of patience and resignation that would not have disgraced a martyr. His beautiful person, extreme compo- sure, and apparent self-satisfaction, inspired such general interest, that hundreds flocked to see him : he was interrogated twice each day,' as long as his strength and articulation permitted. Sand did not deny, that he had resolved on the death of Kotzebue for more than six months ; but he added, that it cost him many a bitter pang and painful struggle with his conscience, before a con- viction of its paramount necessity, finally deter^ mined him to become the executioner. In his ravings he would add, " but Kotzebue must have died, the general interests of Germany demanded it, for his manifold oiFences against the country and the people." Pursuing the same strain he pitied the family of the sufferer, though he consi- dered the deed as meritorious, and himself as a Brutus, who had delivered his beloved country. The above may be considered as a correct epi- tome of his replies, for the same thing was con- stantly repeated in every successive interrogatory, and they were also to be seen in the written declaration found on him when arrested. He constantly and firmly denied having had any ^ 22 accomplices, or being engaged in a combination with others, invariably maintaining, that the act and determination originated solely with him- self. Though the greatest pains were taken dur- ing his collected moments to draw forth a more satisfactory statement, he never varied from his first replies, but steadily adhered to them as the only ones he had to make. To such *a degree had the fever caused by his wounds increased, that subsequently to the 28th of March, no visitors were permitted to see him, while every attempt to obtain answers to any other ques- tions became perfectly fruitless; his extreme weak- ness being such as almost to deprive him of utter- ance. When the fever had somewhat abated, and his mind was more collected, he made signs that he heard and understood what they asked him. This induced the magistrates to cause a pen to be placed in his hand, which was held, in the hope of his being thus able to trace a few lines in reply to their farther interrogations : this expedient seemed particularly irksome to the invalid, and he considered it as a great addition to his suffer- ings — perhaps it was an unnecessary aggravation of them, for it did not lead to the disclosure of a single new fact. The more detailed reveries of Sand's extraor- dinary mind, were developed on the large sheet of paper already alluded to, and evidently written 23 by himself: it resembled a species of proclamation^ and bore the following superscription : " Death- blow FOR Augustus Von Kotzebue/' with the following motto: " virtue in freedom and UNITY." But that the reader may be enabled to form a more correct opinion of this curious docu- ment, as well as to estimate the singular de- gree of methodical arrangement which marked the insane proceedings of Sand, an extract is subjoined. ^^ Our days," he observes, " require acts of promptness and decision agreeable to the law which God has written, with inextinguishable characters of fire, on the human heart ! Prepare yourselves, therefore, and chuse between life or death ! Palpable and unblushing infamy is not the spoiler that corrodes our blood, but vice still more odious, is the canker-worm, that deceives, by assuming the garb of modesty. Thus, while falsehood disguises herself in a thousand meretri- cious forms, it is the wretched lot of the people to become the willing dupes and victims of such lamentable weakness ! " Half informed fools, and crippled sages, make a point of insulting and torturing truth, while that benign attribute'sits enthroned on the minds of men with simplicity and honour ! " Many individuals of the great German na- tion may precede me ; but none can entertain 24 greater detestation for the cowardly and venal sentiments of these degenerate days ! I must e'en give you a proof of my sincerity ; and illustrate my opinion of such ignoble sloth. I know of no- thing more meritorious, than that of striking down the arch-slave and protecting shield of these mer- cenary times — thou despoiler of virtue, and traitor to my country, Augustus Von Kotzebue !" It is thus that he continues in the most extravagant lan- guage to deplore the degradation of Germany, the corruption of her rulers, and the prostituted talents of many public writers. Stimulated by that de- spairing paroxysm, which seems to have become habitual latterly, at least on this point, he calls for the punishment and annihilation of all such miscreants, as the only means of delivering his be- loved country: pursuing the maniac strain, he re- quires that the glorious example which will shortly be achieved against the most obnoxious, may be followed by a similar attack on his coadjutors, to produce unity and freedom, protect and defend that church, whose reformation is not yet com- plete, and finally, to establish one church and one state throughout Germany ! " Most joyfully,'' said he, " do I take the lead in this combat, and sacrifice my life to such an act, as an acceptable offering to the land of my fathers !" Another memorandum which he inserted in the album of a friend, long before the above was 25 written, furnishes an additional proof of his un- settled mind. Having prefixed the following verse to it : Our death will be that of a hero, A brilliant triumph and an early grave ; he proceeds, " Nothing will be done if we are not really heroic, and do not sustain the spirit by continual prayer to the Most High, only living to perform his will with lively enthusiasm. We shall surely conquer if we remain honest and faithful to each other. An early death does not destroy the victory for which we all strive as heroes. Therefore let our doctrine be religiously to believe in God, humbly to cherish him in our hearts, to adhere firmly to his commands on earth, and above all, steadfastly to love the land of our fathers and of our children ! Let us either obtain freedom in this life, or mix our dust with that of our ancestors ! May the God of justice dwell with us ! When thou shalt once more reach Voightland,* think of thy fellow sufferer and unceasing coadjutor in the path of truth, taking care to cherish in heartfelt friendship all the devout of our native land, with thy Charles Louis Sand of WeinseideL— Jena, June 21, 1818." The style and nature of these two papers, par- * The province in which Weinseidel is situated. 26 ticularly the last, leave but little doubt as to the causes which led to this catastrophe. Some have concluded, that Sand must have laboured under an intellectual malady, from the circumstance of there being a green-striped ribband found on his breast after Kotzebue's death, and upon which he had written : " With this I devote myself to death ! 1815. Am I not serious ? Should I have crossed the Rhine again on my return except as victor ?" Whatever act this mysterious inscription might have indicated, it clearly marks the epoch of a strongly excited temperament ; and although the assiduity with which he pursued his studies, as well as the moral rectitude of his conduct, forbids us to characterize his malady by the title of habitual or confirmed insanity, it may be fairly inferred, that the latent spark might have remained in a state of quiespence, but for the provocation given, and the tumult excited in the united body of Ger- man students ; for it was only about six months previous to this event, that he was ever known to express himself so warmly on the subject of Kot- zebue's calumnies. On the other hand, every circumstance that has transpired, no less than the singular firmness and tenacity of his own charac- ter, proves, almost to a demonstration, that he had no immediate accomplices in this daring act. Even those who have been foremost in vilifying 27 the German youth, cannot in their hearts suspect them capable of deliberate assassination. What, therefore, but the base and vindictive malice of a grovelling mind, one of those wretched writers who are ever ready to justify the exertion of arbi- trary power, could have put the following para- graph into a Parisian paper, the Journal des De- bats? — "Sand," observes this scurvy politician and impotent reasoner, ^^ was induced to commit the crime by the outrageous declamations of the German reformers, who envied Kotzebue those talents, with which he defended the policy and institutions of legitimate monarchs. While this horrid murder proves to what excesses the fana- ticism of the false liberals, revolutionists and anarchists may lead — !" The people of Germany will treat the calum- nies of this insolent scribbler with the contempt they so justly deserve ; and if disposed to retaliate, might it not be retorted that there is a much greater predilection in favour of political changes in France, than amongst its northern neigh- bours.* * In making due allowance for the irritation so naturally ex- cited by the passage the author has cited, and admitting the justice of his subsequent remark to a certain extent, there is very little doubt but that if the same causes for revolution had existed in Ger- many twenty-five years ago, similar effects must have followed long since. If the flattering auspices under which the change of system in France commenced, were rendered nugatory by the wickedness ^9 Whatever may be thought of this action in Eng- land, at least by the advocates and supporters of of some, and the intemperate zeal of others, does it follow that the unhappy people, who were merely passive instruments in the hands of rival or contending factions, are less entitled to sympathy, or worthy of a better fate ? It is, however, consoling for the philan- thropist and enlightened friend of liberty to reflect, that if the peo- ple of France have suffered much during that war of alternate dis- aster and glory which has devastated Europe for so long a period, their country has arisen out of the political conflagration with a great accession of freedom. Many intolerable abuses, originating in legal tyranny and feudal oppression, accumulated for centuries, are now happily eradicated ; a number of barbarous laws, and a system of taxation no less onerous than partial, are abrogated : to crown the whole, France may very justly boast of her Code Napo- leon, and election law, since both have excited not only the admi- ration but the envy of many able writers in this country. Having mentioned the Code Napoleon, the Editor cannot suf- fer the occasion to pass, without expressing his deep regret, at the unjust and cruel policy which has consigned him, who had the un- fading honour of promulgating and giving his name to that code, to a prison ; for by what other term can we designate the deso- late and unhealthy island of St. Helena ? While reflecting on the ruthless persecution of those whom his greatness of mind and cle- mency often spared, it must be some consolation for Napoleon to know that his admirable code of laws will contribute to the hap- piness of millions yet unborn, when the most powerful individhials of the present race are forgotten, or only remembered by their crimes and follies. If, however, this country is to be made the instrument, so con- trary to its honour and interests, of thus forcibly retaining the late ruler of France much longer, it is sincerely to be hoped that the sovereigns will maturely consider the fearful responsibility they incur by Napoleon's imprisonment ; the awful charge to which his falling a sacrifice to a corroding climate and harsh treat- 29 despotism, we are confident that while the great body of the people unite in a sentiment of just abhorrence of any thing having the semblance of assassination, there will be but one opinion as to the conduct of M. Von Kotzebue ; — but if a great deal of falsehood and exaggeration has crept into the German papers, no wonder that our remoter neighbours should be still more led astray on the real state of the case. Nothing, for instance, can be farther from the truth, than charging the uni- versities with being the cause of this occurrence, even if some concurring circumstances seemed to authorize such an opinion. As to the insinuations of De Stourdza, they are merely* intended to jus- tify measures of coercion, which those who em- ployed that contemptible satellite of arbitrary power, well knew they were not justified in adopting. In his more tranquil moments Sand has been in the habit of asking for a Bible, and incessantly talks of religion, though he occasionally reads the works of Schiller and Korner.* He inspired such raent must inevitably give rise ; and above all, the probable con- sequences of establishing a precedent never resorted to in anjr former period of history, and one, that may some day or other be fatal to their successors ! . * It is scarcely necessary to inform the reader, that Schiller is considered as the Tacitus of Germany, while Korner, a patriotic poet, who died in the flower of his age, continues to be read by all the German youth with the utmost avidity. — Ed. 30 universal interest with the public, and the anxiety to see him was so great, that soon after the event, he was removed to a more retired part of the hos- pital, and attended with the utmost solicitude. In consequence of a representation from the €!rand Duke of Baden to the ministry of justice, a special commission was appointed, under the authority of the Court Chancellor, Baron Hoken- hurst, to continue the investigation with increased care and activity. Being considered the best medical attendant that could be found in the vicinity. Professor Chelins of Heidleberg has been sent to Manheim, and was desirous of per- forming an operation, which he thought likely to prolong the patient's life. Sand, however, not only objected to any measure of the kind, but obsti- nately resisted every attempt to put it into eifect. In addition to the various other testimonies in favour of Sand's character, the following receiv- ed by his family, in a letter addressed to a member of it from the captain in whose company he served in 1815, is also worth preserving: '' I had constant opportunities of observing him," says this document ; " and every day only tended to increase my esteem and respect for the rectitude of his conduct, his prepossessing manners, and enthu- siastic love of truth. He was, in fact, as modest, gentle, and free from all violent passion as any human being could be ; so that I do not consider 31 this act as the offspring of fanaticism, but the commencement of madness." It is worthy of remark that when the body of Kotzebue was opened, every organ was observed to be perfectly sound, so that he would have pro- bably lived to a much more advanced age, if this tragical event had not occurred. His remains, followed by four mourning coaches, were interred on the morning of the 25th, two days after the catastrophe. Augustus Von Kotzebue was born at Weimar, March the 3d, 1761, where his father, whom he lost at the early age of two months, was counsellor of legation. It was to his uncle, the celebrated Museeus, he owed his early advance- ment in literature, an occupation, or rather a trade, which he commenced at the age of eighteen; and continued with various success to the day of his death. As a dramatic writer, the fame of Kotzebue will no doubt long survive him ; but we are justified in asserting that the more important and lasting celebrity of possessing an independent mind, and being attached to public liberty, had expired before him !* * The praise thus bestowed on Kotzebue as a dramatic writer can only apply to the easy style and occasional wit of his numerous compositions in that department of literature ; for it is notorious that generally speaking, like too many other dramatists of his country, this author also made the interests of morality subservient to those of his plot and story. All who are acquainted with the high sense of religion and comparative simplicity of manners 32 The many presentiments of an untimely end, experienced by M. Kotzebue, furnished his mys- tical friends with thd subject of a fine elegy to his memory, and will no doubt be alluded to oil his monument ; but were not these gloomy pre- sages the warning monitors of that conscience, which, in the emphatic language of Shakespeare, ^' makes cowards of us all !" In concluding our account of this extraordinary event, it is scarcely possible to avoid expressing an almost equal degree of regret for the fate of Kotzebue, and him who perpetrated the deed : by which the people of Germany are distinguished, above many other nations of Europe, have good reason to be astonished at the false taste and pernicious tendency of its national theatre. How- ever, like all that is calculated to flatter the vanities and amuse the curiosity of the public, this is also contagious, and without waiting for the most popular and perhaps least moral productions of the German dramas reaching us through a more circuitous route, they have been imported direct; accordingly, we find The Stranger, Lovers Vows, and numerous pieces of a lighter description, fairly naturalized. The two first have, in fact, been adopted as standard plays in the two national theatres, as they are styled by some people. But what reader of either sex requires to be informed that the heroine of one, who is made to excite the tenderest sympathies of British matrons and maids, has violated the most solemn of all earthly vows, while the hero consents to a reconciliation, which would stamp an English husband with never fading infamy and dishonour I Why not endeavour to make our audiences relish the beauties of Schiller, Goethe and Lessing, instead of destroying all their re- maining taste by melo-dramatic follies ? — Ed. 33 • both were the victims of delusion ; the Counsellor in carrying on a systematic warfare against public bodies, whose resentment a little cool reflection must have led him to anticipate; Sand in not manifesting a timely resistance to those fatal chi- meras which ultimately led to the commission of his crime : both, on the other hand, furnish society at large with a most useful lesson ; and, we trust, that like so many others, it will not be lost either on present times or future generations. Although it is evident nothing but mental derangement could have led such an amiable and uniformly in- offensive character on to the performance of this horrible act, we earnestly hope that the Scriptural adage, " out of evil cometh good," may also be realized on the present occasion; and that the awful event may give rise to the most salutary consequences, particularly on the part of those who direct the press in Germany, setting them- selves up at once as the censors of the age and the organs of government* While the experience of history proves, that even the patronage and protection of the great is not always sufficient to guard us against popular revenge,* this event shews how possible it is to work up even the most virtuous to deeds of desperation. Let both the rulers and public writers of Germany, therefore, reflect on all the circumstances of this singular * Lord Bacon calls revenge a wild sort of juttice.— Ed. D 34 case, and recollect, that the ardent frame of mind which precipitated the youthful student into the vortex of a dreadful crime, belonged to an individual hitherto distinguished for the posses- sion and practice of every virtue that can adorn the human heart. Finally, let them keep in mind, that had not such a writer as Augustus Von Kot- zebue devoted his pen to the unjustifiable object of vilifying the proudest institutions of his coun- try, IT IS MORE THAN PROBABLE THE UNHAPPY SAND HAD NEVER BEEN A MADMAN AND A MUR- DERER ! ! ! 36 ADDENDA. The Editor cannot conclude the foregoing brief statement of facts, in a more appropriate manner, than by presenting- the reader with a literal copy of Sand's celebrated letter, in which lie took leave of his family and friends ; also with the extract of a letter from a celebrated German professor at Weimar, which serves to throw some additional light on the causes that gave rise to thfe catastrophe. The former is dated from Jena, but did not reach the family of Sand for some time after. Though so strongly tinctured with the malady of the writer, it evinces a strength of mind and nobleness of character, rarely to be met with in the ravings of insanity. ^^ To my beloved Family, and dearly cherished Friends, " Why should I augment your sufferings yet t Thus have I thought and wavered about address- ing you; but, though a sudden account ^ of my D ^ 36 meditated act, might soften the acuteness of your grief, and render its duration shorter ; still affection would be lacerated, whereas the severest anguish can be most easily obliterated by emptying the cha- lice of bitterness at once, and submitting with en- tire resignation to the will of our Father who is in Heaven ! Away therefore ! Burst from this closed and anxious heart, thou source of torment ! The last utterance can alone sweeten the pang of separation ! To you, my beloved friends, this paper conveys the final adieu of a son and a bro- ther ! I have long panted and wished for action : but the period has at length arrived, when I must no longer dream, for the distresses of my country press for deeds. — " It is doubtless a great calamity in this life, when God's will remains unaccomplished by our inertness. — Surely our greatest reproach is, that all those principles of honour and justice which thousands sacrificed themselves to establish, are sufibred to sleep like the shapeless phantom of an idle dream ! If the stream of reformation be frozen, ere it has run half its course, our grand- children will have to lament the slothfulness of their fathers! The regeneration of German life has commenced within the last twenty years, par- ticularly in the sacred one of 1813, blessed by the inspired courage of God ! Our fathers' man- sion has been shaken to the very foundation. 37 Forward! Let us hasten to rebuild it with renova- ted beauty. Let us erect a temple worthy of the Divinity, and such as our hearts dictate ! A few oppose themselves, like a dyke, to the highest human excellence of our nation ! Why do multi- tudes bow under the gallingyoke of such wretches? Many ruthless seducers drive on their game un- suspectingly, to the ruin of our people ! Amongst them, isKotzebue ; the most subtle and base of all, — the very proverb of all that is bad in our time : yet his voice is so attuned, that it blinds the senses; turning aside hatred from the most atrocious actions, finally it rocks us to sleep in the old, and fatal slumber. He daily commits treason against the land of his fathers, and stands securely protected by his arts of deceit and flattery : wrapt in the gaudy mantle of his poetical fame, his cowardice is not the less apparent, but it dazzles the public eye, and we swallow the poison which his semi- Russian periodical journal offers. Will not the most dreadful misfortunes overwhelm us ? and can such communications lead either to freedom or happiness ? Nay, can they avail us as con- nected with France ? — If the history of our time is not to teem with disgrace, he must fall ! — l again repeat, that if any good is to be obtained, we must not fear trouble and strife : while the real emancipation and liberty of the great German nation can only ripen, when brave burghers risk 3» and endeavour ; when the son of the land em- braces and loves death, in the contest for all that he values on earth ! — Who then shall advance to crush this miserable varlet, this wretched traitor ? ^* I have waited the proper time, in tears and sorrowful anxiety, for the appearance of one who excels me, and will absolve me from the task. I am not formed to commit murder'— who will release me from my agony, and suffer me to pursue the peaceful career I had chosen ? None shew them- selves, in spite of all my prayers ; and every one has as much right as myself to wait for another ! Delay renders our situation more dangerous and contemptible. Who shall save us from disgrace, if Kotzebue removes from German ground un- punished,* to enjoy his ill acquired treasures, in Russia? Who shall help and deliver us from this unhappy situation, if no one steps forward ? — I hear a call to execute justice, and perform the deed that must be achieved for revered Germany! Advance therefore courageously ! Yes ! I will go forward with godly confidence to administer j ustice, (do not start !) to 'overturn him, the scandalizer and seducer of our nation ! the barbarous traitor ! That he may be stopped from turning us from * M. Kotzebue was reported to be on the point of retiring, ta his .estate in Russia, just before his death. 39 God and truth, or from delivering us to our deadliest enemies ! To this my earnest duty drives me. Since I have known how much is to be done for our people, and since I well know the false subtle knave, this has become my fate, like those patriots of old who only considered the general good ! " Oh ! that I may by this national revenge, apprize our rulers and public functionaries, how falsehood and tyranny injure their cause, and turn the attention of all the vigorous German youth, to saving our native country ! May I spread terror amongst the evil-minded, and in- spire the deserving with courage ! "Writings and speeches are insufficient — Actions suc*h as these can alone avail. If I can but cast one firebrand to awaken the minds of the people, and raise one flame, for the glorious warfare, which according to God's will, began in 1813, I shall fulfil my utmost and highest wishes! For this have I relinquished all the delightful dreams of life ! But I am contented and full of confidence in God, since my path is marked out, through dark^ ness and death, to repay the debt I owe my country. '^ May every true heart prosper ! This sudden separation is a trial ; and your expectations, as well as my wishes are overthrown; but may it be a comfort and preparation to us, for we have ful- filled what our country required, and what I im 40 bibed as one of my first and most unalterable principles. You will say of me : '' he has through our means learnt to understand human life ; and appears really to have loved not only his country but its renown." Yes ! such was indeed the case. Under your fostering care, and owing to your in- numerable sacrifices, I was early imbued with the love of life and my country. You made me ac- quainted with the sciences ; I have lived in mental freedom ; looked into history, and then turned back to my own reflections; and through an exa- mination of the understanding, endeavoured to become fully acquainted with myself and my own situation. ^'I have studied the sciences in the usual manner, and seen through the laws of human wisdom ; I have delivered my opinion on them, and in pre- paring for life, learnt the manner and employ- ment of the inhabitants in various parts of Ger- many. I would have gladly passed my days as a preacher of the gospel, and in the event of being overtaken by calamities, God would have assisted me to fulfil my duty ; but should all this deter me from shielding my country from impending ruin ? Should not the inexpressible love I bear towards it, stimulate my zeal for the general interest, and to court death in such a cause ? ^' How many degenerated Grecians have there not fallen in attempting to free their country from 41 the Turks, and gladly gave up their lives without effecting a favourable result ? Many, amongst us, have devoted themselves to the service of their country ; and should I not die ? — Should we, to whom the deliverance, and advantage is so es- sential, do nothing to effect it ? Am I insensible of your affection, or do I value it lightly ? — Believe it not ! What else should encourage me to die, if not this very affection which you divide with my native country ? Mother ! you will say, "• why have I brought up my son to manhood, he whom I loved, and who loved me in return ; for whom I bore a thousand cares and anxieties ; who, through my prayers, became good and virtuous, and from whom in the last days of my life's ex- hausted career, I looked for filial regard : why does he now forsake me ? Inestimable mother ! may no other parent make the same lamentation ! If our country requires it, and none will perform the deed, what is to become of the land ? But far be all such lamentations from thee ! Thou art unac- quainted with such sentiments. Noble woman! Have I not heard thee deplore the lot of suffering humanity ? — and if no other undertook the rescue of Germany, that would urge me to the strife : still there are two brothers and two sisters left to console you : they remain ; I follow my destiny I " If I lived fifty years longer, I could not live more mentally or conscientiously than I have in 42 these my last years. Our destination is to learn how to know the true God, to strive against evil. In the world we only find anxiety. Oh ! that we may all find peace with him ! To his care and protection I commend ypu. May he raise you up to joy that cannot suffer from earthly disturbance! In all tempests, cling to the land of our fathers ! Lead your little ones, to whom I would so gladly have been the friend and guide, to our highest mountains : let them there, upon elevated altars, consecrate themselves to the service of mankind ! " In joyful reliance upon thee, eternal God ! I leave my country. May thy blessings flow upon the striving number of the nation who appreciate thy goodness ; who, for the advantage of man- kind, courageously hold up thy image on earth. " The last and best preservation consists in the sword : then press the spear to the true heart, for that is the only way to German freedom ! Adieu! " From your ever united son, affectionate friend, and brother, " CHARLES LOUIS SAND." ^ Written at Jena^ in the beginning of March, 1819. 43 EXTRACT, &c. Alluded io in p. 35. ^^ The Tugenhund, or Union of Virtue,^' formed with the most patriotic design in the Prussian states, included many young men, who, though they returned to their studies, could not forget the military life, or those ideas of public liberty, engendered during their absence in the campaigns of 1815. The heads of this association, all of whom considered themselves as the restorers of German independence, soon formed connections^ with each other in the different universities. The tournament or gymnastic exercise, conducted on a military principle, and first suggested by Professor Jahn,* at Berlin, soon extended all over the con- federation, and was considered by its advocates as eminently calculated to promote the revival of public spirit, and establish a greater share of li- * This celebrated man has justly been consigned to one of the Prussian fortresses, together with many others. —Eu. 44 berty in Germany. The potentates assembled at the congress of Vienna had promised their people constitutions, and the abolition of all abuses, be- cause their people were then wanted to aid them in their plans ; but no sooner had the victory been gained, and the day of peril passed over, than those promises were forgotten ! As might be ex- pected^ this greatly incensed the students, nearly all of whom had taken up arms, and marched, equipped at their own expence, to co-operate with the combined armies in 1815. Requisitions were in consequence sent from Jena to all the other German universities, to send deputies, for the purpose of celebrating the anniversary of the deli- verance of Germany, in 1813. They were to meet at the Castle of Wartburg on the 18th of Octo- ber, 1817, when it was also proposed to celebrate the third centenary of the reformation, and about five hundred students did assemble. After the festival a general union of all the universities was formed, under the name of Burschenschaft. The members present took the sacrament, engag- ing faithfully to support the rights of the society, and to. persevere. It is supposed that the distur- bance which took place at Gottingen in the sum- mer of 1818, had some connection with this asso- ciation. Kotzebue, who lived at Weimar at this period, and as the recognized diplomatic agent of Russia, sent half yearly reports on the state of 46 German literature and politics, to the Emperor Alexander, while he published a weekly journal in the sariie city. In this, as well as his reports, he declared himself decidedly hostile to the politi- cal tendency of the students. But when the cir- cumstance of his disapprobation become apparent, by the discovery and subsequent publication of a report intended for the Emperor his master, he was thenceforth regarded as an apostate and traitor to the cause of German liberty. Amongst others. Professor Oken, editor of a journal called the Isis, at Jena, loaded him with invective and ridicule, till at length, the imperial Counsellor, not thinking himself safe at Weimar, removed to Manheim, where, however, he still continued to publish his paper, violently attacking the proceedings of the Tourneyers [as they are styled] and Burschen- schaft. When at the congress of Aix-la-Chapelle, where the Holy Alliance met, in October, the Russian agent Stourdza,a Greek and private secre- tary of Alexander, received a commission to draw npfrom documents and papers presented to the au- tocrat, by a German Courts his pamphlet entitled " Etat actuel de V Allemagne^'' in which the univer- sities are represented as being without subordina- tion or discipline, the book was highly applauded by Kotzebue in his journal. This compilation of calumny and falsehood, which sounds the alarm of fire, if there is but an appearance of smoke, tended 46 greatly to increase the irritation already created in the minds of the students, wherever the above- named association had taken root. As to Stourdza, he soon found it necessary to change his place of abode, and after retiring to Dresden, finally left Germany for St. Petersburg, well knowing he had every reason to expect the resentment of the enemies he had thus made. When challenged for his strictures on the universities, by two young no- blemen then studying at Jena, he refused to meet them, alledging in a letter to the Grand Duke of Weimar, that, as private secretary of the Empe- ror Alexander, he had only obeyed his imperial majesty's orders. The whole displeasure of the enraged students, was now directed against Kot- zebue, who soon fell a victim to his imprudence." ■w^y '^^oum iiBfu4 DEFENCE OF THE GERMAN UNIVERSITIES AGAINST THR CALUMNIES OF AUGUSTUS VON KOTZEBUE. On doit done songer, non ^ repousser les lumieres/mais i les rendre com- pletes, pour que leurs rayons brisks ne presentent point de fausses lueurs. Un gouvernement ne sauroit pretendre derober a, una grande nation la connois- •ance de I'esprit qui regne dans son siecle ; cet esprit renferme des 6l6ments de force et de grandeur, dont on peut user avec succ^s quand on ne craint pas d'aborder hardiment toutes les questions : on trouve alors dans les verit^s €ter- nells des ressources contre les erreurs passag^res, et dans la liberty m^me le maintien de Pordre et Paccroissement de la puissance. Db L' Allemaone par Madams de Stakl. 49 AUTHOR'S PREFACE. As the author of the following* observations has been six years a pupil at the three universities of Wittenberg, Jena, and Gottingen, and twenty- five years a teacher at those of Frankfort, Konigs- berg, Wittenberg, and Leipsic, he has had suflfi- cient opportunities of gaining a thorough perso- nal knowledge of the present state of the German universities ; and he therefore feels himself com- petent to give an opinion on the subject. These remarks arose from the strictures contained in Kotzebue's weekly journal, wherein this topic is also discussed, though most probably without the writer's having any fixed data to guide his inqui- ries, and influenced more by prejudice than actud observation. As the violent death of the imperial Russian counsellor, was unfortunately attended by circum- stances, that appear to the readers of his paper as having had a close connection with his opi- 50 nions on the state of our universities, it has been thought necessary to break the silence hitherto preserved relative to the complaints against them contained in the above-named journal. It is for the reader, who may honour his remarks with a candid and dispassionate perusal, to decide be- tween the accusations sent forth in the Weekly Literary Journal of M. Von Kotzebue, and the Author's reply to those heavy charges. 61 DEFENCE, If the adage, de mortuis nil nisi bonum, afFected the laws of criticism, we should gladly adopt it in reference to a periodical publication, whose third volume was stifled in its birth by the violent death of the author. This fatal event, arising from political zeal and religious enthusiasm, ^which often resort^to such extraordinary expedients for the accomplishment of their object, has gone so far towards expiating the errors of the victim himself, that it must induce a mitigation of censure in the severest judges. But in the present instance, we have less to do with the author personally, than with the emanations of his mind ;and shall not therefore take into consi- deration, that the poignard of an enthusiast has taken a terrible revenge on the man, who so often prostituted his fine talents, by perverting truth, violating good manners, and defaming his oppo- E 2 52 nents. For even in the publication already al- luded to, notwithstanding his plausible motto of ^' speak the truth and /ear none^'' he frequently overlooked the salutary advice therein prescribed. A journal, in mentioning the death of Kotzebue, lately asserted, that if the latter stated many false- hoods, and took great liberties with the character of individuals, he feared no one, but promulgated his opinions openly. I deny, however, that Kotze- bue's sentiments, as expressed in his weekly paper, were always his own, or that he invariably wished them to be thought so by others. He certainly lost no opportunity of disseminating opinions which the great majority of his countrymen could only have regarded as palpable absurdities : amongst others, what are we to say of his asser- tion that Saxony was not unjustly dismembered after the treaty of Paris 'in 1814 ; and that this signal act of legitimate violence, could only be at- tributed to her own fault, because the Emperor Napoleon was not swept oif, i. e. assassinated while at Dresden !* * Is it not more than probable that Sand read the above singu- lar opinion, and may not he have argued thus: " Those whom we consider a^ a public evil, we have arightto rid the world o£—ergo, '1 consider Kotzebue as a public evil, and therefore, &c. * ♦ * '» What could the dramatist have said to this ? Certainly no author had so often and so loudly advocated the Jesuitical maxim, that ** The Cause, purifies the Means," as Kotzebue, in his 53 As soon, however, as he found that a too candid avowal of certain opinions would be likely to mi- litate against his personal interests, no man was more ready to retract and change sides, as strik- ingly manifested with regard to a well known pub- lication,'* though it was evident his mind had un- dergone no alteration. As he did not possess that degree of firmness and resolution, which can alone be the result of solid principles, springing from an honest conviction ; and as his opinions were so va- riable that they might be said to turn round with the blast ; it need excite very little surprise, if the editor of the Literary Journal never entered into argument upon any subject, but treated every thing with a degree of superficial flippancy, or at most, in a strain of witty invective, for this was his forte. Equally natural was it, for such a man to undertake the discussion of every subject, though in reality he understood none thoroughly. Kotzebue often contrived to baffle his adversaries with a species of playful irony, by which he fre- quently gained over the volatile portion of his readers ; also those of maturer sense, who prefer Plays ; and yet he wars with the Jesuits in his journal : so full was this writer of contradictions. f * Alluding most probably to M. De Stourdza's Memoirs. t That M. Kotzebue was not singular in his notions as to the occa- sional necessity of sweeping off, is amply proved in the work of the ^ Marquis De Maubreuil, one of the most curious and interesting pub- lications that has appeared since the commencement of the French revolution.-— Ed. "N 64 frivolity to reflection, or mistake ridicule for rea- son. The truth of this remark cannot be denied by his greatest admirers. In the course of its short career, the Literary Journal has, perhaps, noticed some thousands of publications; and nearly all in the above way, which may be truly called the worst of all me- thods, for instead. of teaching, it confuses; instead of enlightening, it misleads and bewilders ! From the same source also, arose the contempt with which M. Kotzebue treated liberal ideas in politics and government ; for if he was known to support them at one period of his life, how much more frequently has he been occupied in depre- ciating and condemning them ? If you saw him leaning towards the rights of mankind, or throw- ing in a few sentences favourable to the spirit of the age, in one number of his paper, the succeed- ing sheet presented him arrayed in arms against both : just as interest or passion seemed to dic- tate.* Carefully to examine the nature of these ideas, inquire whence they arose, or how far their appli- cation could be rendered useful to the world ; to ascertain, by fact and argument, whether the spirit of the age was good or bad ; how the advantages resulting from it could be applied to practice^ * Are there no parallels to be found amongst the daily editors and critical writers of another country ?— Ed. oo without producing those mischiefs with which, if not thus investigated, it may also teem ; in what manner legislators, without eradicating the good, could suppress the evil : to analyze and promote these highly important questions, was neither the care or business of Kotzebue : it was too fafiguing, and required too great an exertion of thought ! It is not by hastily looking over a hundred vo- lumes, that we can become acquainted with their contents. As to the Editor of the Literary Jour- nal he seemed to be satisfied with this system ; for having found out a few passages, calculated to pamper the appetites and flatter the vanities of a certain class, his purpose seemed to be fully an- swered, while the plan left full scope for the ex- ercise of his wit and satire. Thus it was, that without reading, and consequently incapable of doing justice to any one publication, did M. Kotzebue profess to review many hundreds ! The Literary Journal sometimes rose to the elevation of the sciences, which were perfectly foreign, and a real terra incognita to the author; and amongst other subjects, those of theology and physic. Because these topics afforded an opportunity of being witty, he took great liber- ties with them ; and, like many other of a similar description in jjis plays, the writer himself con- sidered his lucubrations as the effusions of elegance^ and piety. He rifled old critiques from periodi- 6d cal works, to glean reviews for books he had never read. Muller has already, in his publi- cation, called the Polite World, detected Kot- zebue in many such plagiarisms. A similar in- stance might be cited from the Hermes. In the first part of that periodical work, there were six reviews upon various publications by Titler, Kramer, Beckendorf, and others : these six works were also reviewed in the Literary Journal, vide No. 24. and exactly to the same effect; nay, almost in the same words, but abridged and somewhat differently arranged : the whole evidently stolen from the Hermes ; although it was not even once alluded to ! In a subsequent number, however, (vide No. 26,) the Literary Journal mentions the Hermes in terms of great praise, as if anxious, by this indirect mode, to acknowledge the ser- vices it had previously rendered. AndyetKot* zebue has often inveighed against quotations as a species of literary theft. But such was the incon- sistency of his character, that he frequently con- demned in others what he tolerated in himself! After these preliminary remarks on the Literary Journal and its editor, I proceed to view it rather more in detail, particularly as it concerns a sub- ject of great interest and very general discussion at the present moment ; satisfied that the facts I am about to adduce, will prove still more unequi- vocally how extremely superficial as well as unjust 67 Kotzebue's opinions were upon the most important subjects. In the eighteenth number of his paper for the present year, he reviewed the representation pub- lished by the government of Hanover, relative to thefamous affair of the students atGottingen. That memorable document closes with the following sen- tence, which every friend to learning and science must regard as emanating from an exalted and liberal source. " It would be an irreparable misfortune," says this admirable address, " were we to lose our university system, by which the talents and energy of our youth, have such a wide field for expansion and developement, to be changed for another, uniting illiberal ity with bad management !" Blessings on those who uttered such a generous and well-timed sentiment ! equal praise to that government which authorized its publication !^ But how did Kotzebue conduct himself on the above occasion ? " We cannot," said he, with his high flown style and affected importance, *^ con- vince ourselves that the self -called academical liberty, can be pronounced either noble or liberal I" Wretched sophistry! While the representation eulogizes the whole German university system, * The government of Weimar and Gotha, have recently pro- mulgated a similar address. Let us hope that the larger states will follow their example. 68 Kotxebue only remembers academical liberty ^ which merely forms a part of it ; and what idea does he entertain or give of this liberty ? Let the reader judge for himself! " Then in what ' does this liberty consist ? In nothing but the unbridled privilege of every stu- dent to lead a life of dissipation, to visit the col- leges, or absent himself; consequently to leam something, or remain in ignorance ; to take care of his money, or throw it away ; cheat the FMlis- tines, or pay his debts, &c. Where then consists the nobility of this system ?" Certainly not in the foregoing privileges ; but how extremely absurd to tax the universities with a charge, that is evi- dently made up of calumny and falsehood. Surely all men may be dissipated, economists, or spend- thrifts ; pay their debts or cheat their creditors : for they are no longer children, or in fetters. Who but a jaundiced reasoner, or rather one devoid of reason, could make that liberty a crime in the university system of Germany, which is the natu- ral and inherent right of all ? Has not the Divinity left us to chuse between good and evil, virtue and vice ? And while human laws so properly punish or restrain the improper application of this choice, surely the liberty of visiting the col- leges, or staying away, consequently to remain ignorant, or learn something, is vitally essential to academical freedom? But I deny that, be- '59 t;ause a man does not frequent the univemties^ it follows, he should remain in ignorance ; for there have been and still exist many truly great and learned men, who were never diligent in their attendance at the colleges, because they preferred studying at home. It might be justly considered as a waste of time were I to point out the inefficacy, not to say ille- gality of changing the liberty of attendance or non-attendance as noticed by M. Kotzebue. We know that in ordinary schools the boys are obliged to remain fixed to the benches until the hour of meals or relaxation arrives ; yet with this precau- tion, and the strictest discipline in other respects, do they all become equally clever ? Would it be prudent to force improvement, and engender a spirit of tyranny in the process of bringing it about ? Is there any wisdom in converting those whom we destine for the ornaments of society into passive machines ? " Why do we send our sons to the university?" proceeds the Literary Journal. " Is it not for the purpose of their learn- ing something useful ? Yet, what is there done to produce this object ? Nothing more than the professor's standing up to read, quite indifferent whether any one hears him or not: this is a point of no importance to him!" How many falshoods and evasions in this short extract ! What ! is learning the only motive for a university educa- 60 tion ? It is, in iny humble opinion, but one source of intellectual wisdom. The higher branches of mental attainment, to which learning is only an auxiliary, consist of the clear developement of the mind, either by throwing new light on the sciences, or applying what we know of them, to the practices and pursuits of future life. But to extend the question farther, a still more im- portant consequence of academical freedom suggests itself: I allude to the formation of a steadfast character on the part of the students. To promote the above object, no less desirable than necessary, it is essential that the university candidate should enjoy much more liberty than the school-boy ; and that instead of obeying the capricious mandates of a pedagogue, he should learn how to guide and instruct himself: he can- not always remain subject to the trammels of a village seminary, but must sooner or later com- mence his own government and tuition. For the accomplishment of these objects, a university, to speak figuratively, may be called the first step- ping-stone, and finally become the intermediate gradation between the first rudiments of educa- tion^ and his entering on the great stage of life. The distinguishing attribute of a university, is that of its providing for the mental advancement of young men, while it also forms the character. It is in such seminaries that they may be said to 61 commence and acquire habits of study, which they pledge themselves to follow up in after years ; and with good reason, for no human being,/ who has once tasted the joys of intellectual life, should ever cease to be his own teacher. If, as some have proposed, the present universities are to be transformed into schools, the only method left for governments, is to establish new ones by which progressive improvement will be secured, and the student will avoid too rapid a transition from the first scene of tuition, into the vortex of public life. When the university of Berlin was founded, it was destined to hold a much higher rank than any of the others, and to receive those young men, who had studied for several years in the subordinate colleges ; such as students whose minds had been most developed, and whose judg- ments were most matured. This was by no means a bad notion, while it was perfectly suitable to the exigencies of the times ; for it cannot be denied, that many young men enter our univer- sities at too early an age, and even leave them, when they were formerly in the habit of enter- ing. . At one time the higher class of schools, named Gymnasiums and Lyceums, were attended in the fourteenth year, and the pupil remained until his twentieth, he then removed to the university ; and continued there till his twenty -fourth year. 62 But now, it is customary for many of our youth to enter the former at the age of twelve, these seldom stay till the seventeenth, finally quitting the universities at twenty. It may also be noted amongst other defects, for I rather wish to remove than perpetuate abuses, that instead of the pupils being under that strict discipline necessary at an early age, or of forming their minds by a close application to the best authors, they are now often suffered to attend the lecture room of the professors too soon ; and are thus released from salutary restraint when they are not yet sufficiently formed to be able to regu- late either their studies or conduct. Can it be possible for such a revolution to have taken place in the human mind, that a youth of seventeen is as fit for the university now, as one of twenty was two hundred years ago ? This may be justly considered as the reason why academical liberty, without which a university cannot be regarded as an institution for forming the character and expanding the mind, is by no means suited to the extreme youth of some collegians ; and also, why this liberty is somewhat more abused than for- merly. But in this case the universities are not so much to blame as the governments. The pa- rents, who feel anxious to get their sons settled early in life, as it is called, and therefore fancy they cannot attend the university soon enough. 63 are also to blame. Perhaps many are led into the above error, by the expences now attendant on education : these have unfortunately increased, while the means of defraying them daily diminish all over Germany, But should the young pupils fail in the degree of their advancement, waste their time and mo- ney ; if they misunderstand, or abuse academical liberty, and commit foolish excesses, then do the parents join in the outcry against the universities ; whereas it is they alone who deserve censure. Is the above course either just or equitable ? Should we attribute the evils we have brought on our- selves, to those who have no power to avert them? Ought we to forget all the benefits arising from our universities, because the abuses I have men- tioned, are connected with their present adminis- tration? It should also be kept in mind, that when the head of a school dismisses a pupil as efficient, the university dare not turn him back. And is it true, as asserted in the Literary Jour- nal, that in accomplishing the only object, M. Kotzebue will' allow the universities to have in view, viz. the learning, " nothing farther is done, than for the professor to stand up and read, perfectly indifferent whether he is heard or not?" I confess there is some difficulty in preserving the language of moderation on the perusal of such a palpably unfounded assertion; yet I will be 64 calm, and reply to the calumny by an undeniable fact. It is well known, then, that every new- comer, at our university, amongst other injunc- tions received on his first entrance, is earnestly admonished to be diligent ; and also spurred on to emulation. That no professor of integrity and honour, (for if there be any without either, it is the fault of the government which appoints them) can be indifferent on such occasions, or careless whether the students hear him or not. It is the duty and interest of every teacher to arrange his lectures in such a way as that they may ensure not only a willing but attentive hearing : because even in universities, there exists no actual power of compelling the auditors to pay attention. None but the most pedantic and inefficient dis- pensers of learning could desire such a power ; like those wretched and drawling preachers, who wish the people to be driven to church as a flock of sheep to fill the otherwise empty benches, and condemned to hear interminable sermons.^ * Nil sub sole novi ! exclaimed the wisest man of antiquity! So would the professor, if he had been in the habit of attending divine service in the British metropolis ; where, even the advo- cates for building new churches, cannot deny that both reading and preaching is in a most lamentably backward state: nor is it saying too much to add, that it would be of infinitely more im- portance to the established religion, to remedy this evil, than by adding to the number of our temples.— Ed. 65 Should half-yearly examinations be instituted, for the purpose of promoting assiduity and perse- verance amongst the young men ? If so, let that method be adopted; but we may assure ourselves before hand, that the students will not thereby learn a particle more of the sciences, if they have no natural talents, or a desire to do so : be- sides, there are already such examinations, with- out any particular advantage being derived from them. In Konigsberg it was formerly (and may be still) a rule, that all the professors in the pub- lic lectures, should thus examine their pupils at the close of every six months ; I can, however, truly aver,, that the Konigsberg students were not an iota more advanced than those of Witten- berg, Frankfort, or Leipsic; nor have I ever heard that the university of the first named city, can boast of lectures that could claim any su- periority over her rivals ; on the contrary, it may be ranked far behind many, where no such exa- minations take place. I am led to believe these periodical examinations are instituted at all the Catholic universities; but are they on that ac- count superior to the Protestant ones ? Do they produce more profound scholars or learned men than others ? This is a question which it is not for me to decide !* \ . * This opinion of the author with respect to the unimportance F 66 The next passage worthy of notice in the Lite- rary Journal, runs as follows : " It therefore en- tirely depends on the first good or bad education of a youth, upon his disposition, diligence, or idle- ness, whether he yields to, or resists temptation, and finally whether he fulfils the future hopes of his parents or not." Here, as it sometimes hap- pens, the imperial Russian Counsellor is perfectly right ; but in his general anxiety to condemn the universities, he must have forgotten that the above passage contains the best apology their warmest advocates could devise. For admitting the truth of M. Kotzebue's position, and I am not disposed to deny its validity, it is not the uni- versity, but partly human nature, and partly edu- cation, that should be censured for the failures of this or that individual, who leaves it without hav- ing accomplished the wishes of his family and friends. So that it is only for parents and teachers to send good subjects, in which case they may safely calculate on their success. Let the materials be only good, and I can assure those who coincide with M. Kotzebue's strictures, that they will not be spoiled at the universities. But having advanced this notable truism, what conclusion does the writer draw from it ? *^ He," of periodical examinations, will not find many advocates in this country, where they form so striking a feature in our system of education.' — Ed. 67 the youth who goes to a university, ^^ resembles a bottle of letters, which a seaman easts into the sea, without knowing whether it will ever reach the land ; or becoming the sport of the waves, it may not be dashed against some rock of coral ? In truth, every father must now tremble when he sends his son to the university !" Yes, but has he not more roason to tremble for having a child at all ? For this quaint simile of the bottle, is equally applicable to an infant at the hour of its birth, when we all know, that nothing but storms, shoals and quicksands await him ! Really, accord- ing to the above reasoning, if not already tossed about on the stormy billows of life, we ought to be very angry with our parents for ushering us into the world ! Tremble therefore you who have not only been born, but have had the still greater misfortune to marry ; for every child that happens to be the result of your union, will only be a " bottle of letters cast into the sea !" and most probably, after much tossing about be ^^ dashed against a coral rock." Like all other fathers while pressing the babe to your bosom, and offering up prayers for its future happiness, you must be satis- fied to remain in a state of ignorance; for you cannot know whether he shall become a Socrates or an Erastratus ; a Marcus Aurelius, or a Corn- modus ? How anxiously was not that model of emperors and kings occupied in rendering his F 2 68 son worthy of becoming a successor to himself; and yet, what a monster did he not prove ! Have we not living examples to shew that what hap- pened two thousand years ago has also occurred in the ninteenth century ! What infinite pains do we not daily see bestowed on a prince, because the welfare and happiness of millions is hereafter to depend on him ! The first preceptors are sought for his instruction ; all his steps are watched, to prevent his eyes being of- fended or his mind contaminated with evil : per- haps his own father is a model of exemplary vir- tue ; yet, if not a Commodus, he may probably turn out a very insignificant sovereign, and ordi- nary character. However convenient it may sometimes be for a censurep of the age, or stipen- diary critic, to sacrifice sense for sound, and sub- stitute an ingenious simile for unsophisticated argu- ment, I am satisfied that this comparison of the bottle, neither applies to the man who has gone into the great world, or who may have entered a university : there, the student is a being who has approached maturity ; he lives in the midst of a formed community and regular habits ; he is in the daily practice of hearing what he ought to do, and what to avoid ; he cannot take a single wrong step without being censured, or forfeiting the respect and affection upon which his future prospects depend. 69 To those who require more security, what is to prevent them from placing their son under the moral care of some person in the town where his university happens to be situated : if suited to their circumstances, why not send a private tutor with him ? Unhappily most fathers have a blind con- fidence in their children, who, as they often say, go forth perfectly correct and prudent from their hands ; so that if the student is supplied with money, books, and clothes, it is all they think requisite. When he writes home, giving a long account of the works he has read, and the lec- tures he has heard, the parents are as happy as children who receive a toy ; but when the news of some unexpected excess arrives, the university must bear all the blame, though they have them- selves laid the foundation of his fall. Further- more, I am sure I do not exaggerate, when I add that there exist many fathers, who with an air of self-satisfaction, make a point of relating all their youthful follies, while at college, to their sons, who may be on the eve of going to one ; just as if these had been so many heroic exploits — reca- pitulating how they broke such a professor's win- dows, and beat such a Philistine ; how many skirmishes they had with the agents of police, and number of watchmen they knocked down ; together with all the other et-ceteras, of some university students. Can we wonder then, (to use 70 a familiar aphorism) that the apple does not fall far from the tree ? I would seriously advise all those who take a pride in exclaiming against the universities, first, to examine their own breasts, and then candidly confess how far they have abetted their sons : if, like the " bottle" of M. Kotzebue they become the sport of the waves and get dashed against some rock of coral ! Proceeding in the same lugubrous strain, the editor of the Literary Journal adds — " He," the father, " will have most cause to fear if the young man has spirit and a lively imagina- tion. — " It is not my business to inquire what re- collections of the author's own college life flitted before him on penning the above sentence, but I shall proceed to his next, wherein he observes : — ** For the coral rocks of Farming Clubs, Univer- sity Clubs and Tournaments ; aye, even the lecture rooms, where ignorant professors tell him, he is born to reform his native land, beset him every where, and no one answers to the anxious father for the proper application of his son's precious time." This last passage T shall attempt to ana- lyze. In the first place, if there is any proof of im- propriety manifested by these associations, and we have reached that period in the history of Europe, when men cannot meet for their personal amusement, without exciting the fears of govern- 71 ment, ought not the proofs be made apparent, and proper measures taken to prevent any really evil consequences that might arise from them. Se- condly, If there are lecture rooms in which ignorant professors tell their pupils they are called upon to reform the state, let them be locked up, and the professors dismissed. I have no ob- jection whatever to such a measure, nor has any of those with whom I have the honor of acting ; for we all respect common sense too much, to tole- rate absolute folly ! How lamentable that the author of the Literary Journal is no more ! other- wise I should have required a little further infor- mation on this subject ; well knowing, not only his general want of accuracy relative to historical events, but his very great proneness to pervert them. Thirdly, How the tournaments, or mili- tary sports, are dragged into this tirade against our public seminaries, I cannot possibly compre- hend, if the real intention does not lie concealed, that of stirring every thing which may bear two meanings, into such a consistence, as to prevent our seeing what lays at the bottom! Military sports did not originate in the universities, nor are they encouraged in them with any great zeal, for there are very few teachers or places for exer- cises of that description at any of our colleges. But if there were, I am not ashamed to confess> that military sports, which also come under the n denomination of gymnastics, appear both salutary and useful*. This opinion is neither of a modern date or singular nature. If any unpleasant cir- cumstances have occurred at some places where the students are dedicated to these sports, let no father place his son in them again. I understand they are all the fashion in France : if so, and the penchant only continues for a few months, I am sure we shall, according to the too prevalent mania of aping the manners and customs of our neighbours, soon make them general in Germany. Though, with that sophist, M. de Stourdza, I do not think the farming and university clubs ought to be regarded as combinations against the state ; yet they certainly tend to create private dissen- tions amongst the students, and that circum- stance is greatly to be deplored. My advice to our young countrymen, is, to give up all associations of a particular nature, and cling only to one, that which has learning and science for its object. But why should the universities be reproached with them just at this moment ? And why, as Kotzebue says^ should " every fa-^ tber tremble on sending his son to one.'' Com- binations are so ancient^ that even the diet of * The German governments were glad enowgh not only to en- courage, but take advantage of these sports during the late wars. ~Ed. 73 Revensberg took the subject into consideration more than once. Nor can I see why they ought to be regarded as such objects of apprehension. As to the melancholy fate of M. Kotzebue, I do not fear it ; but I really think there is no reason to apprehend any thing of the kind ; for amongsa millions there is scarcely one possessing such a peculiar frame of mind, as to be capable of offer- ing up his life, to destroy that of one whom he can only regard as the enemy of public liberty, and not a private antagonist. This is, amongst many others, a reason for my totally disbelieving the ridiculous report of Sand's being fixed upon by lot to perform this sanguinary deed, as it would be next to an impossibility that the lot should fall on the right person, [at least on one who would consent to become an executioner,] from a large number of individuals.* * Another account of this affair appears to be equally errone- ous : it is said that a slip of paper was found upon Sand, bearing these words, ''^ Death-warrant for Augustus Von Kotzebue ful- filled the "Z^d March, by a resolution of the university.'''^ When could this have been written ? Certainly not before the act, for a thousand circumstances might render delay expedient ; and after the deed there was no time for writing it. This was the reason why many journals stated, instead of " fulfilled," " to be fulfilled;" but that was still more improbable. How long has it been customary for actions that require the utmost secresy to be registered ou slips of paper, and these slips carried about the person of him who is destined to perform them ? 14 If it be thought necessary to prevent all asso- ciations, and specific assemblages of the students, I am convinced it never can be effected without the concurrence and co-operation of their parents. When the latter send their children forth, why not take advantage of the parting hour, when the heart is open to paternal influence, and make them engage not to enter into any combination that has not learning and science exclusively for its object? This should be impressed on their minds whenever an occasion presented itself. But here also, most parents betray the utmost neglect, by taking no notice whatever of the circumstance : so far from it, indeed, that I know some fathers who were formerly at the university for which their son is destined, where they belonged to certain associations, called orders, so inconside- rate as to enter the young candidates' names into the same orders ! How, therefore, is it possible for And which of the universities could have issued this warrant? Why is not the right one named ? Certainly not through forbear- ance ] But the cause of this omission is plain, for as matters stand, the suspicion falls on all, and none can justify itself; nor is there any difficulty in tracing such accounts ; vice invents and folly promulgates them. It has even become fashionable to deny oneself for fear of assassination. Nay, this absurd mania extends to people, for whose lives the world cares not a single straw, and whose exit would excite no more sensation than that of a barn- door theatrical! 76 the professors to counteract that which a parent sanctions with his encouragement ? The editor of the Literary Journal next asks, " would it not be rational (when the school re- straint ceases) to make the youth perform those duties for which he is sent, such as attending the colleges and living orderly ?" Here M. Kotze- bue makes a distinction between school and col- lege restraint, for which he is intitled to my thanks, though in his grave. The other part of his proposition is unfortunately inadmissible. As we have no power of forcing the minds of stu- dents to imbibe our lessons, what would be the use of insisting on their attendance as a measure of coercion ; while those who are really disposed to improve themselves, will never require any rules to enforce attendance ? With respect to the second point, that of living orderly, every violation of the law is provided for by an adequate punish- ment ; but if the writer means that occasional breaches of good manners, or rather the absence of them in some students, can be remedied by any positive laws, I shall not stop to argue the matter, well convinced that no man of sober reflection will regard the interrogation of M. Kotzebue in any other light than a fallacy. In fact, I see no other means (in addition to those already provided) for obliging the students to 76 ^* live orderly," but that of planting cannon in each university. Whether the subject is suffi- ciently important to require such an arrange- ment, it is for the respective governments to decide. It is next said that " nothing is more ridicu- lous and silly, than the assertion, that by the abolition of academical liberty (we call it un- bridled freedom,) genius would not have room to expand." With due deference to the editor of the Literary Journal, I do not think he has made a more ridiculous observation than the above ; for does not true genius burst all restraint? Shall our institutions for the forming of youth be only suitable to the rarity of genius, which so often disappoints expectation, or shall we make them fit for ordinary talent ? " The school at Naumberg," continues M. Kotzebue, '^ was remarkable for an almost monastic severity, and yet the genius of Klopstock expanded there." How comes the word school to be introduced here ? We are speaking of universities ! But did not Klopstock, after leaving the monastic school, which I shall ever recollect with grati- tude, study at Leipsic ? Here, where academi- cal liberty was infinitely greater than it is at pre- sent. This, therefore, becomes a strong argu- ment against the Literary Journal. Such exam- 77 pies as the foregoing ought to be left in the back ground, by those who wish to prove the necessity of curtailing academical freedom. " In the English universities, the students ex- perience considerable privations, yet many men of great genius have issued from them." This I can readily believe if they went in ! for the uni- versity never begets either a man or his genius : but what means this eternal recurrence to genius, as if its possessors were as numerous as the sands on the sea-shore ? Does the editor of the Literary Journal wish to place our universities on the same principle as those of England ? If so, let Ger- many have the privileges iaccorded by the British constitution in its purity, and I venture to assert the students will gladly embrace the change. But with all the superiority of college disci- pline in England, how do those sciences which do not refer to the immediate uses of life, or mere amusement, flourish ? How, for instance, is it with philosophy and metaphysics in that country ? Has the mighty stream, whose source may be traced to the days of Locke, continued to run with equal force since his time ? Has there been a Kant, a Reinhold, a Schelling, or Jacobi to re- fresh it ? And even classical philosophy, in which Britons formerly shone so resplendent, is doubt- less much more flourishing amongst us, as many highly distinguished names might be cited to 78 prove. It is true that England is rich in novel- writers, critics, and poets ; but these are secon- dary branches of literature, and like painting they have been latterly cried up far above their proper level.* Let us, however, not envy the English their liberties ; on the contrary, may those liberties rather increase than diminish, though what is left of them, must tend greatly to soften the restrictions of their university system, which, if I am rightly informed, does not prevent many excesses, though of a different description. We have always enjoyed a certain degree of freedom, in our own universities, and this we hope to re- tain, until a better system is obtained.^j" * Surely the Professor is not acquainted with the poetry of Lord Byron, Mr. Moore, and a few others, who also shine in the con- stellation of which they form such brilliant luminaries ? t It is by no means difficult to anticipate the reception which this allusion to the universities and learning in England will ex- perience, particularly amongst those who derive so many good appointments, and such large emoluments from them. That there are abuses, and of a very formidable kind in those glorious insti- tutions, as well as in every other of a similar nature, the repre- sentations and opinions of many authentic vyriters are on record to attest. It would also be a very curious subject of inquiry, if any one competent to the performance of such a task, were to at- tempt ascertaining how far such opulently endowed establishments, in which a desire for patronage and place must influence so many, are calculated either to promote public liberty, or learning and the sciences ? Without any wish of depreciating the benefits civili- zation has derived from these seats of wisdom, much less to put those of Germany in competition with them, the prodigious ad- 79 " The military schools and cadet corps, keep their pupils in strict subjection, and yet furnish many a hero, many a man of strong mind and rich understanding." They do not furnish, they receive them from the nation ; and cannot, therefore, prevent him, who is destined for a hero, or a strong-minded man, from becoming one, as far, at least, as education goes. But why adduce this instance ? Universities ought not to be conducted on the principle of schools, and least of all mili- tary ones. Even the editor himself, has, accord- ingto a former quotation, admitted that school re- straint is not suited for a university. " Truly evety father," adds M. Kotzebue, " who casts an anxious look on his son, would thank that government, which set the example of banishing vancement made by that country, especially in the higher branches of human knowledge, during the short space of fifty or sixty years, unaided by any such wealthy resources or external support ; is not only a most striking fact, but must tend materially to assist him who undertakes to form an estimate of the comparative ad- vantages accruing from two systems so diametrically opposite. With respect to the point of restrictions, it is a well known fact, that the greatest excesses committed by the youth of England, occur at schools which are remarkable for the severity of their dis- cipline and restrictions, and not at our colleges. As to the violence attributed to the German students, without pronouncing any opinion on the subject, surely it is not for Englishmen to find fault with them, for joining the great body of their countrymen in the wish of obtaining that representative system to which we are indebted for all our own prosperity and greatness ! Ed. • 80 from its universities the unbridled and capricious will of the students." I admit that all " unbri- dled and capricious will/' is pernicious, whether adopted by the student of a college, or exercised by a sovereign and his ministers. So that what- ever government of Europe sets the laudable example of rooting it out, both from the univer- sities and other places, may calculate on the heart- felt gratitude of all its subjects. " For in this so-called academical liberty,'' pro- ceeds M. Kotzebue, " it is but too true, that more good heads and hearts are lost, than have been thereby expanded." Now upon what this "too true," is founded, I am totally at a loss to conceive, as experience, which can alone decide in such a case, amply falsifies the whole assertion. Will any one take the trouble of making out a list of all those good hearts and heads that have been lost in the universities? Without , such a list, how vain to deplore a loss that is unsupported by ^ any proof. But such compassion as this passage contains, did not cost the Editor of the Literary Journal much exertion : he once energetically deplored that he was not the author of Doctor Bahrdt with the iron forehead / and on another occasion, lamented in equally passionate language he had not written Expektorazionen f^ * The first of these two works has been already mentioned. 81 Mo Kotzebue had certainly some reason to vituperate a few individuals within the walls of our higher seminaries; and this is not an age in which venal writers will hesitate to utter false- hoods, if their purpose is thereby answered. But why did the imperial Russian Counsellor wish to blacken the universities ? In what respect had they injured him ? Was it not to them he was chiefly indebted for his own improvement? Why, therefore, instead of manifesting so much ingratitude, did he not acknowledge the benefits they had conferred ? The truth is, that in some of these universities, there were men, who pub- lished periodical works, and literary papers, which papers and works, occasionally took the liberty of criticizing somewhat too freely various publications that interested the editor of the Literary Journal ! and having secured the coun- tenance of Governments, his gratitude was for- gotten, to be replaced by resentment." Hinc illcB lacrymcB ! But the editor proceeds in a still more pathetic strain: "Yes! every childless artizan, if he be a friend to peace and order, would unite in grateful praise for such a measure ; and Heaven defend us in Germany from a revolution ^ but Both were dramatic satires on various literary characters of Ger- many, and equally reprobated by all liberal minded men* — Ed. 82 should there be one, what could the nation ex- pect after such examples having been shown by our youth? Then might the latter justly re- proach us for not making them better : for he who would rear a sapling, must not begin by exposing the weak shoot to the fury of the storm." It is scarcely necessary to observe, that the simile which denominates the student " a weak shoot, which is to be a sapling," combines all the qualities of absurdity and burlesque. For are not most of our students at that time of life, when they may have a progeny, and that princes are considered of age to reign ? However calculated such lamen- tations are to excite risibility, this matter is too serious to justify laughter. I shall tfierefore treat it with becoming gravity. As the sub- ject has been so much discussed, both in and out of the universities, I am also induced to beg that government would interfere, particularly as it has withdrawn the means of establishing the wished for regulations and order in their juris- diction, from the respective provosts. The latter is a point that should be well remembered before judgment is passed. No authority on earth can act without the requisite means ; how then is a pro- vost divested of powers to do so ? The title of mag- nijicus, his purple robe, the trains of ermine, silver sceptre and golden crown, are estimated as they deserve ; and I need hardly add that such outward 83 marks of dignity do not avail in our days : they even excite laughter or ridicule, if not connected with other and more significant attributes : yet, although they are taken from the provost, he is still expected to maintain order amongst those young men vi^ho come under their charge, and whose temperaments have, it is not denied, on some solitary occasions, led to a degree of per- turbation, by no means favourable to the tranquil pursuits of learning, although rendered almost inevitable by the peculiar character of the times. It is notorious that many of the prerogatives al- lowed to provosts by our ancestors, have been either abrogated or assumed by the government. It is said the provost should influence chiefly by his moral conduct and personal dignity : granted ; but all morality should have a physical basis, and this is not communicated by personal example. Admitting the justice of the foregoing position, it must be allowed that any man whose moral ex- cellence is such, as to produce some effect on the youthful student ; would be least likely to com- promise it, by accepting a situation in which its efficacy would be more than problematical ; and God knows there is nothing to render the office of provost one of pecuniary cupidity. The salary is scarcely worth naming : it is trebly earned by the harrassing nature of his duties ; it is, in truth, little more than what the world is accustomed to 84 call a post of honour ; but if stripped of all those attributes which make it respectable and dignified, does it not become one of shame and dissatisfac- tion ? How singular I that with powers so limited, and subject to the incessant dictum of their re- spective governments, not only the editor of the Literary Journal, but other writers on the same side, should recommend still greater re- strictions from without ; thus divesting the tem- ples of knowledge and abodes of learning, of that independence, and those fascinations which can alone induce our youth to frequent them ! And how, let me ask, have they deserved such a disgrace ? Have the academical authorities ever opposed even-handed justice ? Have they twisted right into wrong, or tolerated evil ? Have they encouraged the law's delay more than others ? Do they not submit their judgments to the col- lege of decrees ? These interrogatories might be extended much farther, but the subject is still open for discussion, and I must hasten to a con- clusion. It remains for me to offer a few re- marks on academical liberty, hitherto only treat- ,ed, for the purpose of exposing the sophistical perplexity in which it was enveloped by an ^author, who seemed merely desirous of amusing his readers with sarcastic comments, or of grati- .fying his own selfish views. 85 According to my view of this matter, people generally speak of academical liberty, only as it relates to the students, looking upon it as a nega- tive privilege, namely, the absence of that scholas- tic restraint they were under, previous to eijtering the university. Undoubtedly this negative quality belongs in a certain degree to academical liberty ; and I have already shown why school restraint cannot exist in a university. Yet, there is another species of liberty attached to our great seminaries of a more positive kind, and which refers as much to the professors as to the students, I mean free- dom of teaching, and freedom of hearing. The first of these consists of all those who are entered on the register of a university, and who have given sufficient proofs of their abilities, in any branch of knowledge, being allowed to teach others, that every established teacher may construct his lec- tures in the best way he can, without being bound to follow any written rules or specific plan of tui- tion. As what we call early teaching, (that com- municated by such instructors as those alluded to above) is attained without interfering with more difficult or profound studies, no inconvenience can well arise from it ; for however inadequate the self-elected instructor may be, he cannot but pro- duce some advancement in the scholar. With re- spect, however, to the second point, I am in- clined to more than doubt the expediency of 86 printed forms, or too methodical plans for teaching in universities : they not only cramp the mind, but impede the progress of knowledge. As mer- chants justly say to governments, laissez nous faire ! so should the university teachers ; and they might justly add, that knowledge advances still less than trade, when the precise form of lec- tures and technical rules are prescribed.^'^ * Amongst the numerous writers who have taken up the cause of the German universities, no one is more conspicuous than M. Villars, whose pamphlet entitled, Coup d'CEil sur les Universites et le Mode d'' Instruction puhlique de V Allemagne, S^c. is a master- piece in its way, and confers the highest honour on the author. This writer, though a Frenchman, has known how to appreciate the uti- lity and importance of these seminaries, better than many of our ungrateful countrymen, who have joined in the senseless clamour against them. M. Villars concludes a mass of convincing arguments supported by many facts, with the following very judicious observa- tion. '* To lower the universities from the rank they occupy, remove them to a distance from the throne, and take away their attributes, would be to continue the obligation of performing their functions, while every means of doing so was destroyed. It would, in fact, be to depreciate them, inflict a mortal wound on their general organization, and lay the foundation of their speedy extinction I" The concluding paragraph of this eloquent writer's book is also worth transcribing : " What is the result then of the foregoing observations ? It is that every nation, distinguish- ed from others, by its manners, language, taste, and habits, possesses a character, particular mode of viewing things, localities, and manner of living peculiar to itself, which it is extremely difficult, if not impossible to change. Civilized nations seem to participate in, and divide the various sources of glory, emulat- ing each other by cultivating all (he different branches of human 87 Though the mercantile world has its own in- terest in view, yet governments take good care to profit by the prosperity of trade. The teachers at universities, on the contrary, gain nothing by the success of their lessons. If profit was the object, then indeed would the professors gladly knowledge. Italy, for instance, is distinguished for its love of the fine arts ; England for its successful progress in the mechanical and useful ones, political science and commerce. France culti- Tates the higher branches of science and natural history. Finally, Germany, profound erudition and abstruse thinking, together with those metaphysical pursuits which tend at once to raise and ennoble the mind of man. In obeying this indication of Providence, it is the interest ofall, tolet each remain as they are, and to encou- rage them in advancing on that path which the impulsion of nature has directed. The peculiar genius of Germany has led to a sys- tem of public instruction, extremely well understood and combined, and above all to some schools of a higher nature, which have never been exceeded in any age or country. — These univer- sities, placed in the centre of Europe, appear destined to become, and are, in fact, institutions to which all the other nations pay tribute, while they participate in the benefits that spring from such establishments. These abodes of learning go to establish a species of moral tie between the different states, forming a point of contact, that cannot fail greatly to promote the general interests of civilization. But in order that they should fulfil their useful and important destination, to secure a continuance of those advantages, no less important than multiplied, which they have hitherto rendered the country, it is necessary to leave their existence entire, together with their physical means, authority, liberty and consideration." Such was the advice given by a Frenchman to a French Government in Germany, and his advice was followed. Shall original and free German governments do less? Deus omen avertatI 88 avail themselves of written rules, as it would greatly diminish their trouble ; for instead of puz- zling their own brains to devise modes of improv- ing the pupils, they would merely have to adhere to a dull routine, which though it suited the plod- ding portion of the students, might obstruct the progress of those endowed with genius and talents. Arguing upon this principle, it is only the worst teachers and least enlightened professors, who can advocate the insipid monotony of rules and regulations, in promoting the higher branches of education. Freedom of hearing, consists in the students being permitted to fix on teachers of their own choice, as well as attend lectures on the same footing ; finally, that they shall have the privilege of dividing their time, between lectures, private tuition and recreation. Long experience con- vinces me, that there is no mischief whatever to be apprehended from this plan. My own has invariably been to begin with discussing the first elemental principles of ethics, and the Philoso- phical Encyclopedia ; thence proceeding to theo- retical; and, lastly, to practical philosophy. I have, however, met with several students, and those by no means the least clever, who followed the opposite plan ; first hearing the practical, and finishing where I have been in the habit of com- mencing. Although this mode is certainly in 89 opposition to the progressive and analytical plan, it has its advantages, as the llrst is calculated for some pupils, and the second for others. By this sort of liberty, the student is enabled to select what may be best suited to the powers and expan- sion of his understanding. It must not, however, be for a moment imagined, that the foregoing pri- vilege on the part of students, tends to make the teachers and professors too dependent on their approbation, and are therefore over-injjulgent. Its chief effect, hitherto, has been to excite a praise- worthy emulation amongst the students as well as their teachers. These points I am led to regard as the essence of ACADEMIC LIBERTY, all othcrs being accidental and dependent on them, without influencing either the march of science, or advancement of know- ledge. If I am asked whether this liberty may not be abused, I shall reply, most certainly it may, like every other ! Must it not therefore be set aside ? Unquestionably not ! But surely there ought to be laws, for the purpose of keeping students- within bounds, and in the right track ? Assuredly ; but there are such laws already, and in abundance : each university has its academical laws ; this code is laid before every student on his first entrance, and the latter makes a vow to obey its various enactments : but my opponent will reply, if these 't 90 laws are not kept, of what use are they? Pre- cisely of the same use as all other laws, which are violated by some individuals. But, it will next be asked, are not the provosts in fault, for not caus- ing them to be enforced V Alas! the poor pro- vosts, to whom are daily sent younger and more unripe pupils, who are incapable of guiding them- selves amongst more experienced and matured companions ; how extremely hard to blame men whose means of executing justice is so limited, while the real error is on the side of government! While the ministers of large kingdoms, and magistrates of cities with overstrained powers, and all other physical means of enforcing the laws, cannot always prevent a breach of them, how can the superintendent of the uni- versity do so with his circumscribed means and inadequate powers ? A man of talents and address may certainly make a great deal out of com- paratively small means ; but it is only for the Divinity alone to create, and as yet, he has un- fortunately not condescended to divide his power with the provost of a German university! To attribute crimes such as that lately com- mitted at Manheim to all the universities, and to punish them by abolishing academical liberty, is contrary to every principle of law and justice. Those who are guilty, should be punished, to the utmost extent of the laws. Even if we could 91 imagine the improbable, the almost impossible case, of a whole university professors and stu- dents, participating in illegal practices, let the university be broken up, and the ringleaders handed over to condign punishment. But in the name of common sense, do not make learn- ing suffer because a few individuals have offended the laws. In those days of political agitation and party distinction, when faction is contending for power on the one hand, and people sighing for their freedom on the other, no wonder that suspicion should fall heavily on the German universities, which have always been justly celebrated for their patriotism and love of rational liberty. But I strenuously recommend our youth, who devote themselves to science and study, not to sully their reputation or impede their progress to the tem- ple of wisdom, by abandoning the path traced out when first consigned to the walls of a univer- sity. Let them studiously avoid all associations that have not the promotion of science, and bonds of social intercourse in view ; every other being foreign to their business and adverse to their happiness ! Uninfluenced by the example of that writer, whose unmerited strictures it has been my humble office to refute, as well as many others of the same class, let the students of Ger- many judge of men and books with becoming can- 92 dour and less asperity. Least of all, I would con- jure them to wage any war but that of the pen ; for they are not destined for grand inquisitors, but peaceful members of society. When they meet with any address or publication that deals in dark- ness and obscurity, which contains neither facts to prove, or arguments to convince; bewilder- ing the understanding, and setting conscience at defiance, how easy to close their eyes and ears T otherwise they may be assured that some of the poison will be imbibed. Finally, may their future conduct be such as to put calumny to flight, without abandoning the cause of their country or the interests of virtue ! THE END. W, Shack ell; Printer, Johnson '«-court; London. 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