PREFACE.

IN offering his Impressions to the public, the "Flâneur" must apologise for his foreign name, and explain its meaning. His apology is that no word exists in the English language which would convey a correct idea of a Flâneur. He is not an "Idler," as is generally supposed; on the contrary, intense activity of all faculties is one of the most necessary qualifications of a Flâneur. Nor is he an "Observer;" for this would imply the concentration of his faculties towards a definite aim and in a certain direction.

The true Flâneur has a horror of all definite aim; he never seeks he trusts to chance. His mind is like a sensitive blank photograph plate, ready for any impression which may present itself.

The internal state of France has attracted considerable attention of late, and rather unsettled ideas about Imperialism. Some impressions fresh from the spot may therefore not be without interest at this

moment.