On Thursday Lord Derby was closely questioned as to the
policy of the Government, both by Lord Stratheden, who is pro- Turk, and Lord Granville, who is not, but declined to enter on any formal discussion. He held that it was at the close of the struggle, when both parties were much exhausted, that England would be strongest, and repeated that the Sultan had been plainly warned that he had no assistance to expect from this country. The Government did not intend to encourage agitation, from whichever side it might come, and having resolved on a policy of neutrality, had made that policy clear to all the world. This is most satisfactory, as far as it goes, but it does not go far enough. It is after the rising of Parliament that the true danger will arise, for Lord Beaconsfield will then be able to take steps which may lead to war without previously announcing that war will arise out of them. Perhaps, under the circumstances, the best guarantee is the difficulty which Lord Derby, who must be consulted, will find in making up his mind. lie is not very fond of encountering victors, though be may do it under Lord Beaconsfield's instigation.
