a city of France, the capital of an arrondissement of the same name, in the department of the Seine and Oise, which extends over 331 square miles, is divided into eight cantons, and those into 114 communes, containing, in 1836, 133,551 inhabitants. This city is extensive, divided into the new and the old town, is splendidly built, and, by the magnificence of its appearance, must have been very appropriate for the circumstances of France, when the state of society was different from what now exists; where there were nobles to occupy the splendid mansions, and more than 80,000 inhabitants of all classes. The palace was built by Louis XIV., between the years 1673 and 1680. It is a most magnificent and extensive pile of building, decorated with the remains of that correct and classic style of architecture which was the prevailing taste of the time in which it was erected. It is however in a dilapidated condition, and its noble apartments destitute of furniture, and almost of occupants. The gardens are in total preservation, and especially the water-works, the exhibition of which on Sundays and holidays, still draws to Versailles a large proportion of the more vulgar of the Parisians. In 1836, the inhabitants of Versailles amounted to 92,209, among whom are many English and other foreign families, drawn to it by the cheapness with which the ornamental parts of education can be obtained. Some manufactures have been introduced, especially for fire-arms of the most luxurious kind; besides which many watches are made, some cotton goods, and many smaller articles. It is in this place where, in 1783, was signed the peace with England by which the independence of America was established.

L. 48. 48. 21. Long. 2. 1. 17. E.

ERSE, in Poetry, a line consisting of a number of words and short syllables, which run with an agreeable cadence.

ERSETZ, a city of Hungary, the capital of a circle of the same name in the province of Hither Theiss. It is the seat of a Greek bishop, and a place of great industry, having large silk mills, and an extensive trade in wine, corn, rice, and other commodities. Here are extensive barracks for cavalry. It contains many churches, 2600 houses, and 1800 inhabitants. Lat. 45. 4. 6. Long. 21. 13. 40. E.