 Leftist supporters gathered in central Paris last night to heave a collective sigh of relief as the exit polls showed the French far-right's dream of taking power had been dashed, proclaiming it a victory for the values of the French Republic. On the sidelines, masked protesters clashed with police. As the count continues, the combined left group is tipped to take the most seats in Parliament. Relieved more than anything, really overwhelmingly relieved.