The Moniteiti., which is now defending Marshal MacMahon, says he
will not resign, even if he is defeated in the elections. This statement is probably intended to convince all malcontents that they have nothing to hope from a change of government, and to defeat the intention ascribed to the Left of putting forward the name of M. Thiers as the alternative candidate for the Pre- sidency. M. Gambetta has advised this as under the circum- stances better than the nomination either of General Chanzy or M. Grevy, the two names most likely to be selected, and the advice has been accepted by all but the Irreconcilables. M. Thiers has agreed to this combination, and has recommended the Liberals, it is said, not to pass the Budget, and thus force on a speedy dissolution. As the Elysee does not deny that the control of the Budget belongs to the Chamber, this proposal would compel the Marshal either to dissolve or to resign ; and of course, if the Senate will permit, he will choose the latter course. The Senate's action, it is believed, will depend upon the Legitimists, who are very doubtful of the new Government, which they say lacks energy to be logical. Their numbers, however, are very few, and they will probably, unless the Comte de Chambord interferes, be pacified by promises.
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