In the House of Lords on Thursday Lord Lansdowne, in
answer to Lord Spencer, expressed very grave apprehensions on the condition of things in the Balkan Peninsula,— apprehensions which are fully shared by those who have just returned from Macedonia. There was, added Lord Lans- downe, too much reason to be disappointed with the work in carrying out the scheme of reform, and he thought that if the rate of progress was not accelerated, they might be confronted with a situation of great gravity. For ourselves, we feel convinced that the only plan which promises a satisfactory solution of the situation is joint pressure by France, Italy, and Britain on the Sultan. We recognise, of course, that France at this moment cannot do anything which would be in any way resented by Russia, but surely France could make it clear to her ally that in entering upon such joint action she would give the fullest consideration to all Russian interests.
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