The German Emperor has acted, as is his wont, somewhat
hastily. Indignant at the language used by the Parisian Press about the visit of the Empress Frederick, he has ordered or sanctioned a sudden revival of the restrictive passport laws between France and Alsace-Lorraine. The object of this measure, his advocates say, is to warn alI Frenchmen that the " Reichsland" is now separated from France, and that it will so remain. But Frenchmen were aware of that before; and it is hard, not to say unfair, to worry the Alsatians because the Parisians have been rude. The "retaliatory measure" sent down all the Bourses in Europe, not because of its effect on business, but because it was held to indicate that the Emperor could be moved by anger even in high political affairs, We do not think he was angry; but he is one of those men in whom there is no faculty of disdain, who cannot let things pass, but must answer even the boys in the street. The Empress Frederick shows more of the true Royal temper, if it is true, as is said, that she has cordially thanked the French Government for her reception, and has expressed herself delighted with all the incidents of her visit. The Austrian Archduke was wise who, when an officer trod designedly on his foot, only remarked : " How very awkward that gentleman is !" His rank was too high for him to assume that insult could be intended.
