The Germans and Poles in both Germany and Austria are
ex- ceedingly irritated bya ukase just issued by the Russian Govern- ment. Foreigners are forbidden by this decree to acquire freeholds in Russia, and ordered to dispose of those they possess. This measure affects the aristocracy in both the German Empires very nearly, as most of the great families possess estates in Russian Poland, and it is said to be contrary to the provisions of the Treaties of 1815. The measure is not intended to prevent absenteeism, but to reduce the German influence in Poland, and serve as reprisals for the expulsion of Poles from East Prussia ordered by Prince Bismarck. Unless forbidden by Treaty, the order is not contrary to international law, nor, except in its retrospective action, is it inherently unjust. It was the law once in all countries, and has recently been re-enacted by the Congress of the United States. A non-resident foreigner, indeed, can hardly fulfil the duties which in many countries—Prussia, for example —are exacted from the holders of large estates.
Previous page
