The Cologne Gazelle affirms that the agreement between Germany and
Austria arranged in October, 1870, was reduced to writing, and was intended to last for five years. It has, how- ever, served both Empires so well that, although a year has still to expire, proposals have been made from Berlin, and accepted in Vienna, for a considerable extension of the term. The " Treaty " is probably personal to the Sovereigns, though it must be known to the Princes in the German Federation ; but the story in its general drift is probable enough. From the German point of view, the alliance has been a complete success, for Prince Bismarck has wielded the power of both countries'; while Austria has lost nothing, except, perhaps, a little of her separate dignity. The French Government has been quite powerless for any adventurous action not previously sanctioned by the Chancellor, while the Russian Government has been paralysed, and Italy has adhered steadily to the alliance. It is a natural one in itself and tends to peace, but one of its effects is to stereotype arrangements which ought to be only temporary. While it lasts Russia cannot move, but then also neither can the Balkan Principalities, which ought by this time to be thinking of the Federation, without which they may be swallovved one by one. However, the alliance notwithstanding, Greece has acquired Thessaly, Montenegro has won her neces- sary pastures, and Eastern Roumelia has obtained,—time. Absurd as the position of that State-province is, Philippopolis is as quiet as Bucharest.
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