The American Government appears to entertain a serious project of
some kind with regard to the Spanish-American Republics. Mr. Blaine, before retiring from office, addressed, in November, a letter to the Governments of Mexico, of Central America, and of all South-American Republics—thus excluding Brazil—expressing the great friendship felt for them by the Government of Washington. That Government would not interfere with their national independence for the world, and would not allow Europe to interfere either ; but, it might be for the common good to hold a conference at Washington, on 30th November, 1882. Mr. Blaine accompanied this circular with a note to all American Ministers in the territories addressed, directing them to hint "delicately" that the Union intended to pay all expenses attending the conference. This looks like business, and as the despatch has received, it is said, the sub- sequent endorsement of President Arthur, the object of the United States Government becomes one of some interest. Is the American Government about to propose a customs and postal alliance to both the Americas, Brazil excepted ; or to make a treaty, offensive and defensive ; or to propose a court of arbitration between States ; or to offer a protectorate, at a price ?
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