1 DECEMBER 1877, Page 1

The Roumanian Chamber was opened on November 27, and the

speech from the Throne contains a paragraph intimating the firm belief of the Prince "that the independence of Roumania will be recognised by all Europe," which will perceive that "she is a

nation able to fulfil the mission reserved for her on the Lower Danube, having the perseverance to accomplish it, and the energy to defend it when necessary." It is not probable that Prince Charles used such words without being certain of the consent of the Czar and of his own family, and the statement is therefore important, as showing that Russia is willing to concede a real independence to these States. Hitherto she has been able to treat them at will either as independent States, or as vassal pro- vinces of Turkey, but she now relinquishes that great advantage. The speech will increase the readiness of Servia to resume war, which is too great already.