The American correspondent of the Times telegraphs (April 10) that
the Joint High Commission has arrived at an agreement as to the principles on which the Alabama claims and Fishery disputes are to be decided. The right of fishing on Canadian coasts and of resorting to them for the purpose of preparing the fish, is to be sold by the Dominion to the Union for a price. This will take that dangerous and rather trumpery question out of theway forever. The Alabama claims are to be settled by laying down certain principles of international neutrality, according to which another Commis- sion will adjust those claims. The English Commissioners have, of course, not travelled beyond their instructions, and the American Commissioners are in full intercourse with the Presi- dent, and it would seem, therefore, as if little were necessary except the acceptance of the Report by the Senate as a basis for a final treaty. This appears to be most satisfactory, but no clear opinion can be formed until the details are known. It is to be noted, however, that American statesmen are always easier to deal with in Washington than London. There they are confident ; here they are suspicious.
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