The Russian Emperor on his return from Darmstadt to his
capital paid a short visit to the German Kaiser at Pots- dam. As Comet Muravieff and Prince Holeenlohe were both present, it is imagined that grave matters were discussed between the two Monarchs, but there is little probability that this was the case. There is nothing in dispute between the two Empires just now, nor have they anything in common to obtain, their interests in China in particular being by no means identical. Had the matters to be discussed been really grave the Austrian Emperor must have been present, and it is much more probable that the whole affair was a State ceremony intended only to tell the world that the two dynasties were on fairly cordial terms. Emperors, like other men, like to meet acquaintances of their own rank, and think that personal intercourse facilitates business,—a very doubtful proposition. Continental journalists are eager to believe that their Majesties discussed plans for saving the independ- ence of the South African Republics, but it, is much more likely that they discussed the last new opera, or the most recent scientific invention. Sovereigns are too surfeited with politics to want them at lunch. We may rely upon one thing, that William II. did not mention the Samoan settlement announced a few hours after the meeting.
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