It is not probable that Prince Bismarck will depart, or
that the Emperor will permit his departure. It is an interregnum, in reality, and the Prince would only return with the neat Heir, who attended the Chancellor's birthday-dinner on Sunday, and addressed to him publicly some unusual words. According to the North German Glizette, the Crown Prince spoke as follows, but in the original report his words were much more emphatic :--" I compare our present situation to that of a regiment which is advancing to the attack. The commander has fallen, and the next in command, although hard hit, rides boldly in advance of all, his gaze fixed on the flag which the bearer waves on high. Thus does your Highness hold the banner of the Empire. May it still long be permitted to you, in conjunction with our beloved and
revered Emperor, to hold on high the Imperial flag." That is a co-Emperor's tone, not a Prince's. Even a rumour of Prince Bismarck's resignation, however, causes excitement, which will be deepened by a belief that he is really struggling not against a marriage, but against the ascendency of the Empress Victoria in polities. The Germans believe her Majesty to be far too "English," and will on this occasion undoubtedly side with the Chancellor. The solution will pro- bably be a postponement of the betrothal, but great bitterness will be left behind.
