The riots at CuHera., in the province of Valencia, as
a result of which seven prisoners were sentenced to death, have led to a Ministerial crisis in Spain. The Government recommended the King to reprieve six of the prisoners, but held out, in face of a strong agitation, in the ease of the seventh, who had been found guilty of murder by the Supreme Council on three separate counts, whereas the others were condemned on one count only. The King having expressed his desire to extend his clemency to the seventh prisoner, Seiler Canalejas replied that as a great part of the public favoured a reprieve and as ho was very desirous that no part of the responsibility for refusal should fall on the Monarch, since it belonged solely to the Government, he would immediately prepare for his Majesty's signature a Royal decree authorizing the reprieve. At the same time, as the decision of the Government on this matter was irrevocable, he must tender the resignation of the whole Cabinet, and advised the King to consult the leaders of the Conservative and Liberal Parties. Conferences with these leaders having shown that an alternative Cabinet was out of the question, Sefior Canalejas has acceded to the King's re- quest and resumed office. The immediate result has been an immense access of popularity for the Throne, the Republican Press applauding the King's action, and a relaxation of political tension, from which the Ministry will undoubtedly profit in dealing with the Moroccan and other problems.
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