14 DECEMBER 1861, Page 2

The Emperor of Russia has changed his Ministry into a

Cabinet. The Ministers have been hitherto secretaries, with- out power even to advise. They are now, however, to con- sider all importantlnestions conjointly and report on them as a eouncil. This innovation is to be followed by an exten- .hion of the Council of the Empire, which will be increased by the addition of independent persons, and invested with some legislative authority, of course without impairing in theory the power of the Czar. The origin and meaning of these reforms is explained in another place.