An extraordinary story is spreading on the Continent of the
desire of the German Emperor to visit Paris, on his way to see some sick relatives at Cannes. He would travel in strict incognito, but of course with the full knowledge and protection of the Presidential Government. There is probably something in the story, though it is officially denied, or the correspondents and bulletin-writers would not have been instigated to deprecate such a decision ; and it certainly would be a most ill-advised adventure. The German Emperor ought to be as safe in Paris as any other distinguished visitor ; but he would not be, and no Government whatever can guard a guest against lunatics, assassins, and the thousands who in Paris would think it honourable to express their detestation of- victorious enemies by insulting their chief. Paris swarms with German and Polish anarchists, and a stray shot might
alter the whole current of affairs in Europe, and bring on the war which the Emperor so sedulously and successfully avoids. There is no duty to be done, and the excitement to be gained, though we dare say it attracts the Kaiser, who loves dan- gerous driving, is not of the kind which Kings should seek, at all events in days when danger to them means danger to the European tranquillity, which is worth in mere money something like twenty millions a week.
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