The Russian Government has published two further manifestoes in the
Official Gazette, in which, while declaring that the policy of Alexander II. is a policy of peace, it recapitulates its grievances against Austria, professes friendship for all Siemens not under its rule, and desires the Slavons to seek their autonomy, and acquire "what in nations is called political spirit and in individuals sagacity and conduct." In other words, Russia wishes the Slavonic races of Austria to look to her as protector, without exactly pro- mising war on their behalf. The effect of this menace has been to frighten the Ultramontanes of Austria away from their Czech allies. Cardinal Rauscher, Archbishop of Vienna, has resumed his seat in the Reicharath, vacant since the abolition of the Concordat ; the Tyrolese have all come in, and the number of members, which the Czechs hoped to reduce below the necessary 100, has risen to 160, enough even for constitutional reforms, which require a two- thirds' vote. The Galicians, who are five millions to the Czech three, are all represented ; and the House, in its address to the throne, is favourable to their demands. It must never be for- gotten, in studying Austrian politics, that the Ultramontanes, greatly as they dislike the Liberals, have no wish to exchange their sway for that of the Head of the schismatic Greek Church.
Previous page
