31 OCTOBER 1885, Page 1

NEWS OF THE WEEK.

THE state of affairs in the Balkans has become a little clearer during the week, but only a very little. Servia, Greece, Bulgaria, and Montenegro have evidently agreed to await the decision of a Conference in Constantinople before moving. The Sultan has also agreed, though unwillingly, that this Conference shall sit. Accordingly, it has begun its deliberations (October 29th), taking as the basis of argument that the status quo shall be restored in East Rotimelia. How far it will depart from that basis is not known ; but it is understood that if it does not depart to some extent, either by allowing Prince Alexander to become Governor-General of Southern Bulgaria, or by revising the Organic Statute of that province so as to allow the two Administrations to be fused, England, France, and probably Italy will retire, and leave Turkey to settle with the Imperial Powers. That seems a use- less threat ; but it is not, for Turkey does not like her position as chicken in front of three foxes, and the legal right still rests with the Sultan. Even the Emperors could hardly order him not to appoint Prince Alexander to an office within his gift, and he may choose that road out of his dilemma. The Conference ought to be over in three days ; but the Ambassadors are always " telegraphing , for instructions," that is, reporting to their Governments.