The Times publishes a curious account of the match monopoly
lately established by the French Government. It was found im- possible to tax matches, but quite possible to sell the exclusive right of making them, and this has been done. A Syndicate of bankers has purchased the right for 1760,000 a year, binding itself at the same time to sell matches at 2 francs the kilogramme, or about 4fd. per 1,000, surely cheap enough. The traders who make the matches will pay the Syndicate, and reimburse them- selves mainly by their sale of wax matches, in which the Mar- seilles makers seem to have secured a sort of exporting monopoly. Their matches are purchased in tons in all countries where cigar- ettes are used, as the common match dipped in phosphorus-paste gives out an unpleasant effluvium, and they evidently calculate upon retaining the whole of this trade. They will also retain some profit from the wood trade, as the low price makes illicit competition by men without machinery very difficult. The scheme is ingenious, and must make Mr. Lowe rather envious of a Government which would disperse a gathering of match-sellers with a volley.
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