INTRODUCTION ix 
  
Germany, the formation of a North German Confedera- 
tion under Prussia as bead, and finally the inevitable, 
gigantic struggle between Germany and France for the 
supremacy in Europe. Even after the Peace of Frank- 
fürt Wilhelm I. was not destined to enjoy unbroken rest 
for the remaining sixteen years of his reign as Emperor- 
King. Twice was bis life attempted by socialistic 
fanatics, and the severity of the Falk Laws of 1872—78 
bears witness to the heat of his contest with the Popes, 
Pius IX. and Leo XlII. 
The reign was a memorable one in the annals of 
Germany, and the personality and character of the 
monarch are no less worthy of study. For these the 
reader is referred to the text. In the notes I have 
endeavoured to elucidate points of grammar and con- 
struction by references to the bock itself, and to explain 
historical allusions. 
ybest thanks are due to Alessrs. Düms of Wesel 
for permission to include the bock in this series. The 
original text with several coloured illustrations is 
Published at o, S0 M. 
E. P. A