An extraordinary telegram, more than a column long, was published
in the Times of Wednesday, from its correspondent in Paris. Its object is, first, to exalt the public estimation of the Prince of Wales as a diplomatist, he having excited the admiration and regard of the young Czar ; and secondly, to affirm that England, France, and Russia have recently been drawing together in a kind of hostility to Germany and Italy, both of which countries are colonising Powers. This rapprochement, produced, as regards Russia, by personal influences, is fostered in France by the opinion of all sensible politicians, who see that in England there is no hostility to their country, and feel that if Russia will not join them aiainst Great Britain, their wisest course will be a good understanding, to which the only obstacle is the feeling of the Colonial party about Egypt. The letter has obviously been published for some definite purpose, but it is a little difficult to see what it is, as this country will not abandon its attitude of aloofness from Continental complications. It is probably an inspired effort to retain a hold upon the Russian Emperor, and to inform him that if he has any idea of a British alliance, France is willing to enter as a third into that combination. The whole business looks to As more than a little unreal. Grave interests separate us from Russia, though an alliance would in Asia be advantageous, and France cannot, until she has won a pitched battle, keep down her jealousy of the expansion of her neighbour. She has no grievance against her except superior success ; but in the eyes of the envious, what greater grievance is there P
