The drought still continues, and its effects become worse. 'The
hay-crop may be considered lost in France, England, 'Germany, and Hungary ; everywhere farmers are selling and killing beasts ; and everywhere the omnibus companies, tram companies, and companies for delivery of goods in cities, all which depend on horses, will be terribly hit by the price of fodder. The French Protectionists are, indeed, so alarmed, that they have allowed a Bill to be swept through, suspending the import duties on hay and oats. We also shall get much hay from abroad—at a price—but the collection of rural rents will be more difficult than ever. The cholera, too, is reappear- ing in many parts of the Continent, Paris in particular, and doctors are arguing whether drought is, or is not, inimical to it. It undoubtedly tends to prevent its spread in country districts ; but in great cities there is increased difficulty in flushing drains.
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