The confusion of parties in the German Reichstag has become
greater than ever. It was supposed that Prince Bismarck would court an alliance with the Centre; but his organs have abused the Ultramontane leader, Herr Windthorst, in no measured terms, accusing him, among other things, of hiding Particularism under his pretext of religious fervour. So certain did the Centre feel that these attacks were inspired. that Herr Windthorst and his entire party, after accepting the Prince's invitation to an en- tertainment, stayed away. There is a suspicion abroad that the quarrel may be feigned, but there is no evidence for this, and the Liberals are beginning to discuss terms on which the Centre might join them. The truth is that the Chancellor, in the pre. sent condition of affairs, is content to wait. He does not want his " Socialist" Bills, except as electoral addresses; he thinks the Ultramontanes must come round ; and he wants to dictate -terms, instead of receiving them. He may be right, but he has as yet shown very little ability as a party manager. With half Lord Beaconsfield's ability in that direction, he would be dic- tator of Germany. As it is, he can compass anything, except a working majority.
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