It would seem that the affairs of Madagascar may very
soon attract close European attention. M. Lambert, a Frenchman, was at the head of a great French Financial and Industrial Company, to whom the late King had made large concessions of land. These concessions, it is believed, have been cancelled, and M. Lambert. has arrived in Madagascar to claim his rights. It is certain that he is supported by the good-will of the French Government, and it is feared that he may have some promises of armed assistance. In the latter ease the British Government would not, perhaps, interfere ; but it would be bound to see that a virtual French protec- torate did not interfere with its treaty rights, or endanger Mauritius by a suspension of the usual supplies of cattle and food. Madagascar, with its pathless woods, deadly morasses, and governing warrior class, would not be a pleasant island even for Frenchmen to invade.
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