This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1768 edition. Excerpt: ....'./..... CHAPTER III. The Present State of Corsica, with respeci to the Government, Religion, Arms, Commerce, Learning, Genius and Character of its Inhabitants, AFTER running over the revolutions of an island, which has experienced so many vicissitudes, it will be agreeable to consider the result of these vigorous exertions in the cause of liberty. I shall, therefore, with much pleasure, present my readers with the state of Corsica as it now is. The government of Corsica is, as follows.Every paese or village, elects, by majority of votes, a Podesta and other two magistrates, who have the respectable name of f Padri del Commune; Fathers of the Community. These magistrates are chosen annually. They may be continued in office for several years, at the will of the community; but there must be a new election every year. The Podesta, by himself, may determine causes to the value of ten livres; and united with the Padri del Commune, may finally determine causes to the value of thirty livres. The Podesta is the representative of the government, and to him are addressed all the orders of the supreme council. The Padri del Commune superintend the conomy and police of the village, call the people together, and consult with them on every thing that concerns their interest. In some villages, the inhabitants join with the Podesta and Padri del Commune, twelve honest men, in whom they can confide, and to whom they delegate their power of settling the affairs of the publick. These are called counsellors, and sit as assessors with the three magistrates of the village. The names of these magistrates, as soon as elected, must be transmitted to the magistrates of the province, who have it in their power to oppose the choice, and order a new election;...