The attitude of the Continental Powers is not clear. The
Russian Press, as usual, is hostile, but the Russian Govern- ment is reserved. The German Emperor is said to have approached the Czar ; but St. Petersburg has its French alliance to think of, and is not fond of frying eggs for other people's omelettes. The key of the situation rests with France, and France has not made up its mind. Great Britain is of course a diabolical Power, because she holds Alexandria; but would one attack even the devil for the benefit of Germany ? France reflects, and weighs Alsace- Lorraine against Egypt. The situation is perplexed ; but Lord Salisbury is terribly harassed, and indeed there is only one Minister who can be at all happy. Mr. Goschen is in no doubt as to his duty, which is to have all possible ships, guns, and sailors as ready as the engineers' strike, which is still going on, will permit. Ironclads are not only useful in war, they are most efficient peacemakers.
