26 AUGUST 1871, Page 1

Nothing has yet been finally determined as to the prolongation

of M. Thiers' powers. According to the latest accounts, however, he insists on the title of President of the Republic, in order that he may be in a position to negotiate with foreign Powers on a more equal footing, but is open to compromise on other points. The responsibility of Ministers is not yet settled, but it is believed that they will be responsible both to M. Thiers and the Assembly —an absurd arrangement—and that the term of the President will be till the dissolution of this Assembly. That last idea evidently emanates from the Right, which hopes thus to enlist M. Thiers on its side, and to protract its own existence till a Monarchy becomes possible. It dreads dissolution as if it were death, knowing well that the constituencies would not again return local magnates, but seek for serious politicians of a moderate Republican type.