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Rh of Jewellers' shops, the like of which can be seen in few other places in the world.

Not far from the Palais Royal,—and to the east are the Halles Centrales,—the central market place of Paris. Like most old buildings of Paris, even this market place has a history of its own. For the market women of this place who in vigour and volubility have always surpassed the market women of other parts of the world, have sometimes played an important part in French history. In 1791, they issued in a body and marched to Verseilles with the male rioters, and forced the unfortunate Louis XVI. to come to Paris. In 1871, again, it was the Dames de la Halle who wanted the priest of St. Eustache Church (who had been arrested) to be restored to them. Even Communists were not a match for these ladies, and the priest was given up. It is a sight to walk through this very extensive market with viands and fruits and flowers and fishes of all kinds exposed for sale in the innumerable stalls each marked with the name of the stall-keeper. Frogs will be seen here in large quantities, exposed for sale! Lively scenes are not unoften witnessed in these markets, for French women are keen bargainers, and when the Parisian house-keeper meets the Dames de la Halle comes the tug of war!

Mention is made in the preceding paragraph of the Church of St. Eustache. That church is situated immediately to the north of the market, and is largely frequented by the market people and the lower classes. It is one of