NEWS OF THE WEEK.
rpHE topic of the week has been the Conference proposed by 1 the Emperor of the French to settle the Roman question. We have discussed the obstacles to such a Conference elsewhere, but may mention here that the probability of its assembling is not great. Lord Stanley wants, it 'is believed, a previous base of agreement ; Prussia would like to know what she is to guarantee ; Austria is sick of Italian meddling ; and Russia wishes the Con- ference to take other questions into consideration. The public everywhere condemns the idea as a device for shifting responsi- bility from Napoleon, and the Pope calmly remarks that no Con- ference is required. Evil and violent persons have merely to restore St. Peter his property, and make submission to the Church, and the Pope will pardon them heartily. What can be easier, or more simple?
