The leading French Republicans have evidently an idea that though,
pending her opportunity, France should be cautious or quiescent in Europe, she should accept every chance of extending her frontiers abroad. The Government is increasing its influ- ence in Tunis till the Italians are furious, have sanctioned and provided for the conquest of Anam—an enterprise of which we shall hear more from India—and have just incorporated Tahiti. The native King has been induced or compelled to sell his rights, and the island has been declared part of the French Republic. There is no reason to be suspicious of the act,—though should the Panama Canal ever be opened, Tahiti would be valuable,—as France has been the protector of the little Pacific kingdom for forty years, and the political difference between recognised " pro- tection" and ownership is inappreciable. Moreover, should France and England ever again be at variance, every island and maritime station in her possession will be an inducement to keep the peace' If we were Jingoes, we could only wish that Russia and Germany, too, had ships, colonies, and commerce which (;'Treat Britain could reach.
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