The Italian Premier, Marquis Rudini, delivered a speech at Milan
on November 9th, in which he was studiously con- ciliatory to all Powers and parties. He was certain that the renewal of the Triple Alliance would "develop the policy of prudent watchfulness," which was Italy's proper rile ; but, at the same time, Queen Victoria's reception of the Prince of Naples had inspired Italy with gratitude, while towards France his country always acted in a manner to dispel suspicions and doubts. As regards the Papacy, Italy would not tamper "with the immoveable statutory law of guarantees ;" and as regards Africa, she would restrict her outlay, and make friends with the Negus of Abyssinia. The Marquis, in fact,. though he refuses to reduce armaments, was entirely pacific, declaring that his one grand object, failing in which he will resign, is to restore the financial equilibrium without new taxes. He had already, he said, effected a saving of 22,500,000' by economies, and in 1892-93 the retrenchment would amount to £4,100,000, when there would be a surplus of 2360,000. The speech is a little too full of universal good-will, and it is by no means certain that the Chamber will consent to the savings ; but still, it is pretty clear that the Government is alarmed by the financial position, and will do the best it can. Its first difficulty is the craving of the electors for local railways, expenditure on public works, and assistance to Municipalities which have over-spent themselves.
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