1 APRIL 1865, Page 2

It is stated in many quarters that should the Convention

be carried out, the Pope is determined to fly, and that no less than four retreats have been offered him. England suggests Malta, where be may be invested with privileges impossible except in a Catholic colony. France has repaired the palace at Avignon, Spain offers the Balearic Isles, and Austria has intimated that Ragusa may perhaps suit His Holiness. We believe the balance of probability, should the Pope quit Rome, is in favour of Malta, where he would be free from official shackles, and not asked to sign concordats favourable to the protecting power. The only annoy- ance he could give would be by making the island a centre of anti-Italian intrigue.