ments of
Mexican society, but rather of those same aristocratic, ecclesiastical,
and conservative elements which are now in alliance with the French
Emperor, and in deadly hostility to what is democratic or republican in
that distracted land. We cannot doubt, therefore, that, whatever Louis
Napoleon may affirm, that, whatever generalities he may put forth
concerning Mexican reorganization and growth, the purpose of his sway
cannot be the real elevation or freedom of the people. He has espoused
the interests of that party which seeks to perpetuate among the mass of
the people ignorance, superstition, poverty, and social degradation.
While, therefore, his invasion originated to a very great extent in
injustice and thirst for power, it is not probable that his occupation
of the country will be used with any intention of elevating and blessing
it.

But God is greater than man. And so it may well happen that the results
of human ambition may be kinder than its purpose. And if Louis Napoleon
gives Mexico rest from change and suffering, that will be something. If
the steel gauntlet crushes out the banditti, and the silken glove
encourages honest toil, then, by the blessing of God, with stable
industry and peace secured to her, and with every good gift blossoming
at her feet, Mexico may yet be trained to take her place among the
galaxy of the nations. And when that hour comes, if come it may, it will
be no power four thousand miles across gulf and sea that will keep her
from her true destiny.

THE RIM.

PART III.--CONCLUSION.

The boat went cutting through the tide-waves and dashing the spray over
her bows, the wide sea was opening all around them,--the salt wind stung
his brain to keener life. To what horrid fate were they hurrying, she
alone with this maniacal man? Out there beyond, away and away, the
mighty billows tossed in their cruel glee, silvered their crests and
horns in the moonlight, and grew and disappeared like phantoms. Her
heart sank down abysses with every beat,--she covered her face with her
hands in some vain call for miraculous aid.

Just then another boat came by and took the wind from their sails.
Eloise felt the slackened speed, and looked up. First the figure of a
horseman standing against the sky on the cliff above, as if a portion of
the stone itself, caught her eye; next, the sail sheering by them; then
she was on her feet beside Marlboro'. She reached out her hand to the
tiller; she loo