The appeal of Louis Riel, the Canadian rebel, to the
Privy Council, has met with no success. The Judges unanimously affirmed the legality of the sentence which condemned him to death ; and it is believed that the Canadian Government intend to carry out the sentence. They say that they cannot afford to allow the French-Canadians and the half-breeds to rebel with impunity, and that if there is to be a war of races in Canada, this is the most favourable time. It is not unfair that Riel should die, for those who take up arms must risk their lives, and this is his second insurrection ; but the political argument is worthless. The answer to it is the final one, that the next rebel will fight to the death. Riel should be hung or reprieved, according to the justice of the special case. If he fought fairly, on reasonable grounds, he should be reprieved ; but if he had no solid grievance, redress for which had been refused, or if he violated the laws of war, he should be executed. The latter is alleged; but theevidence that has reached this side is imperfect.
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