The Queen of Spain has given birth to a child,
a girl, now according to the law under which Queen Isabella succeeded, the heiress to the monarchy. Great disappointment is felt at the child's sex, the palace having made sure of a boy because of the Pope's blessing ; but it is asserted everywhere that the event secures the throne. That is questionable. When parties are very bitter, a childless man, who seems to reign only during an interregnum, is often the ruler least attacked, and parties in Spain are growing very bitter. The Carlists are stirring again in the North, and the example of France is a never-ending pro- vocation to the Republicans. Worst sign of all, the Govern- ment is getting exasperated by symptoms foreigners do not see ; and Seim Canovas, formerly moderate, has commenced a policy of repression. The electors were openly compelled to vote for the Government, the popular soldier, Marshal Martinez Campos, has been threatened with exile, and the Government is credited with an intention to suppress debate within the Chambers. No immediate outbreak is expected, but Spaniards do not think the throne the more secure for the wonderful ceremonials attending the birth of the Infanta.
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