23 FEBRUARY 1968, Page 8

A hundred years ago

From the 'Spectator', 22 February 1868—We learn by Atlantic Telegraph that the new State Constitu- tion has been defeated in Alabama, and so ends the hope of a speedy reconciliation between the South and the North. Had it been ratified, the intention of the Republicans was, we believe, to admit Alabama, under her new constitution, at once into Congress, and this would have opened the way to a reconstruction of the Union. But as the "Conservatives" have defeated the State 'Constitution, it is probable enough that Congress will have to put in force for a considerable time longer its recent provisional measures for the mili- tary government of the South.