they
were but a den of mountain thieves, dangerous to each other, and
unapproachable by strangers. At the present time, no country can boast
superiority in either of these respects. Indeed, in so small a
community, crime is rare, from the greater certainty of detection. I
speak nothing, of course, of border pastimes with their neighbours;
and these, possibly, form a safety-valve to the pent-up propensities
of the inhabitants. This important change has been brought about
within fifty years, but, most of all, during the twelve years that the
present Vladika has reigned. But the Vladikas who have effected this
change, actuated by the desire of improving the condition of their
people, have been obliged to barter their independence, in a manner,
for Russian gold, in order to give them the means of effecting it. I
am not able to say when the subsidizing system first commenced, but at
present the Vladika, as well as all the officials and senators,
receive their stipends. That of the Vladika amounts, I believe, to
about eight thousand pounds annually; but this may include a small tax
of, I think, two shillings on each household, which is paid by the
Montenegrians themselves. Of the senators, there are forty who are
elected by the communes, and paid by Russia. There is also a force of
eight hundred men paid, and residing in different districts, which
forms an executive police; but there is nothing in the shape of a
standing army. The Vladikas are appointed by the emperor in nepotal
succession from the family of Petrovitch. The present Vladika received
his education at St Petersburg, and several of his nephews are now
there, from whom his successor will be chosen. I am not acquainted
with the amount of temporal power possessed by the Vladika, but I
should think it was subject to much restraint. I have heard that, on
more than one occasion in the senate, he has been personally
threatened during the stormy debates which have occurred. Though he is
generally popular, it would seem that here, as elsewhere, there
exists a strong party opposed to all reform, and pining for the good
old days of general license. The demeanour of the Montenegrians to
their Vladika, though respectful, is free and independent. On meeting
him the hand is raised to the head, or, if near, they offer to kiss
his hand. This salutation is paid to any ordinary priest, and
occasionally, through all Dalmatia, to a stranger like myself. Russia,
it will be seen, reig