Prince Bismarck has published, through the North German Gazette, an
explanation of his policy in Bulgaria. It is sub- stantially the one we ventured to suggest a fortnight since. A hostile attitude, says the writer, on the part of Germany to- wards Russia might have led to a breach between them "with- out the chance, perhaps, of her finding a fit moment for the re- establishment of better relations." Had a rupture really occurred, as might have occurred seven years ago," there can be no doubt that the ChassepOts, as they say in France, would go off of their own accord." "We are not pusillanimous enough to shrink back in fear from such a situation, if it became inevitable, or if our own interests forced it on us ; but neither are we un- scrupulous enough to urge the German nation into a war of this kind without any good and material reasons for it, and merely to gratify a French-like hankering after prestige. An alliance between Russia and France does not exist, is not probable, and is not necessary in order to dispose France to attack Germany as soon as the latter has another foeman worthy of her steel." The writer proceeds to affirm that Europe did not mind when Russia was supreme in Bulgaria, even appointing to all military commands, and that Russia has no intention of occupying that State. She is prevented from that step by the will of Europe, and might be prevented by a single State if England were seriously looking out for a partner. At present, however, England is only searching for a Power to do the work without her help. All this means that Germany fears an alliance of Russia and France, and will not risk one by resisting the moral conquest of Bulgaria. The Austrian Government has answered this manifesto through the Frenutenblatt by assurances that it values the alliance; but it is evident that the agreement has been strained almost to breaking-point. The Hungarian Government is especially furious, and it is stated that unless full explanations are given, Herr Tisza will lose his majority. He is already threatened with most direct and imprudent interpellations.
