30 MARCH 1889, Page 2

The French Ministry still cannot make up their minds whether

to prosecute General Boulanger or no. It is affirmed, on one hand, that they have evidence that the General sanctioned preparations for a march of the Patriotic League upon the Chamber and the glysee, and that he could, there- fore, be tried for high treason ; and on the other, that the march organised was only a demonstration, and was entirely independent of the General. It is evident that the proof is imperfect, or the leaders of the League would not be indicted for the minor offence of belonging to a secret society. According to a report which is prima facie probable, M. Constans advises audacity, and is urged on by M. Clemen- ceau, and M. de Freycinet recommends kisser faire ; while the President will accept either advice, but inclines to the latter. The trial of the Leaguers is ordered for April, and will, it is supposed, be a gigantic affair, occupying months ; but M. Laguerre has been exempted from the prose- cution. The hesitation of the Government is significant, and doubtless proceeds from some uncertainty as to the temper not only of the Army, but of the police.