The Madrid correspondent of the Times, usually most accurately informed,
states that an invitation has been sent out to Germany, Austria, France, Great Britain, Italy, the United States, and the minor Powers, to meet in conference at Madrid and settle the question of Morocco. It presses, for it may cause war. Muley Hassan is supposed to be better, and the idea is to utilise the short respite from anarchy to induce him to throw open his territories to the world. If he will do that, and establish some sort of civilised government, Europe may in return guarantee the integrity of his Empire, and give up the right of granting Ambassadorial protection to sections of his subjects. This privilege has been grossly abused, and even, as is alleged, sold for money. The Powers, it is expected, will accept the invitation ; but it is held to be doubtful whether France will agree to the terms to be proposed, though she would do much to secure the neutrality of Spain when the great war breaks out. The Conference is a good thing, because it will compel the Powers really interested in Morocco to show their hands ; but we should doubt if any large result will be secured. The prize is a very big one, and France will think it easier to buy off Spain, as she may do in two or three ways, than to snatch Morocco out of the grip of entire Europe.
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