4 AUGUST 1855, Page 2

While we have been counting the probable eost of the

war and providing funds to meet it, our ally has completed with marvellous success a financial operation undertaken with the same object. The French Government asked for a loan of 30,000,0001.; and forthwith nearly five times that amount was subscribed, and the subscriptions of less than 50/. capital amounted to about one-third of the whole sum required. The terms of sub- scription were undoubtedly very 'favourable, and it is likely that many persons put down their names for amounts larger than they wished to take knowing that they would only obtain an allot- anent proportioned to the sum subscribed for. Nevertheless, the proof afforded of the extent of the resources of France, and of the confidence reposed in the Emperor's government, is unmistakeable, and in both points of view the success of our ally's loan furnishes matter of congratulation to ourselves. The excitement of this operation, diffused throughout the capital and the departments, has been succeeded by notes of preparation for the approaching visit of our Queen. A welcome as cordial as that of the Emperor on our own shores awaits her, and increased friendliness and mutual knowledge must arise between the two countries from her visit.