23 OCTOBER 1982, Page 10

One hundred years ago

A new political movement has broken out in Spain. The Liberals of almost all shades think S. Sagasta, though nominally a Liberal, far too reactionary, and have asked Marshal Serrano to be the mouthpiece of their ideas. The Mar- shal, though now above 70, has con- sented; and as he is still the most popular officer in the Army, and as General Martinez Campos has declined com- mand, the Ministry is struck with con- sternation. It has endeavoured to patch up an agreement with Marshal Serrano, on the conditions that he shall accept the Monarchy; that he shall be Premier, with S. Sagasta as Minister of the In- terior; and that he shall be content with liberal measures, without reforming the Constitution. The Marshal accepts the first two conditions, but wants the Con- stitution of 1869 as well.

Spectator, 21 October 1882