ABSTRACT
There are few subjects more important and interesting than the combined arrangements for the internal security of a nation comprehended in the term, System of Police. The relations between a policeman and the regular London thief who follows his business as a profession, are very like those between the soldiers of regular armies. A skilful police officer regulates his conduct according to the feelings of the class with whom he has to deal. No member of Parliament would venture to say that it was dangerous to walk in the streets of London by day, or night. The power of the House of Commons enables us now, with perfect safety to our liberties, to discard these contrivances, and adopt more vigorous institutions; our powerful Metropolitan Police force, under Commissioners responsible to the Home Secretary and, through him, to Parliament, being as strictly constitutional in principle as the Saxon tything men and headboronghs.
