I view in the same
light the innovations making here. The new organization of the judiciary
department is undoubtedly for the better. The reformation of the
criminal code is an immense step taken towards good. The composition
of the Plenary court is indeed vicious in the extreme; but the basis of
that court may be retained, and its composition changed. Make of it a
representative of the people, by composing it of members sent from
the Provincial Assemblies, and it becomes a valuable member of the
constitution. But it is said, the court will not consent to do this:
the court, however, has consented to call the States General, who will
consider the Plenary court but as a canvass for them to work on. The
public mind is manifestly advancing on the abusive prerogatives of
their governors, and bearing them down. No force in the government can
withstand this, in the long run. Courtiers had rather give up power than
pleasures; they will barter, therefore, the usurped prerogatives of
the King for the money of the people. This is the agent by which modern
nations will recover their rights.
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