There is a stir in various countries abroad.
France is perhaps as quiet as any ; the newly-concluded slave- trade treaty with this country having given satisfaction. It can scarcely establish a worse system on the coast of Africa than that which has so long and fruitlessly contended against the slave-trade ; and if it pleases France, it does some. good.
In Spain, the Narvaez Government, relieved from the feeble checks of the Cortes and the old constitution have begun a cru- sade against the press ; having transported two troublesome editors to the Indian seas, without trial. The abdication of Don Carlos is confirmed by the publication of the act itself, with a manifesto by the Prince of the Asturias to the Spanish nation, so equivocating that it may fit any event—a marriage, a reconquest, a handsome settlement in private life, or anything else.
Syria is torn by the most shocking anarchy : Christians and Mahometans torturing and exterminating each other ; and the Turkish authorities interposing to shoot the victors on either side, by way of restoring peace.
In- India a new actor appears successful in the scene of in- trigue—Groolab Singh ; a mountain-chief, who ran a good chance of becoming Prime Minister, since he possessed one army of his own and had bought over the Sikh army. Meanwhile, sonic Sikh plunderers across the border have been chastised by British troops : the people at Lahore vow vengeance, and in spite of their own Government and ours, may insist, by persevering in aggres- sion, on being conquered.
It is reported from Mexico, that France and England have suc- ceeded in appeasing her quarrel with the United States.
From the United States themselves, we hear nothing but sounds of peace—sensible remarks in newspapers, and rumours that Mr. Caoun, the advocate of a reciprocal treaty of commerce, is coming over to negotiate a settlement of disputes.
Previous page
