The difficulty for foreigners of comprehending the present movement in
Norway is to understand whether the Nor- wegians are prepared for an armed struggle with Sweden. If they are not, their action seems to be unreasonable ; and if -they are, suicidal. They have as complete self-government as it is possible for any nation to enjoy, they have no grievances against their King, and their credit stands higher than that of most first-class Powers. To abandon -these advantages, and enter on an armed struggle for the sake of a nominal independence which would leave them powerless in the face either of Russia or Germany, seems foolish ; but it is said the Radicals are inclined to run the risk. Fortunately, the people have not yet sanctioned any irreparable act, and the capital is Unionist ; but Swedish patience is almost giving way.
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