24 DECEMBER 1870, Page 2

It is expected that the Bavarian Diet will refuse to

ratify the new treaty under which Bavaria is to enter the German Confede- ration. The refusal, though remarkable, as showing the strength still belonging to the Separatists, is of very little importance. The Chamber, having been elected during a momentary alliance be- tween the King and the Catholic party, is Ultramontane, but it is only strong through the union of the cries of "Church" and "King." If dissolved under the new circumstances, the King's influence will be thrown on the side of unity, the moderate Catholics will be on the same side, and the Ultramontanes will be hopelessly de- feated. Fear of that result will probably induce them to absent themselves from the Chamber while the treaty is accepted, or perhaps they may receive a hint from Rome, which is coquetting with the Hohenzollerns.