Most of the French papers approve the action of the
Govern- ment, but the Orleanists and the Reds are very bitter. The former say the Government have left to France only the alternatives of a discreditable retreat or a disaster, while the latter denounce the notion of a war with China as monstrous. Their Chief, M. Clemencean, intends to meet any request for a credit to send troops to Tonquin with a direct negative, and he will find, it is said, serious support, even if he takes a division, as he threatens to do, before the " credit " is formally asked for. The Government as yet hold firm, but they have not stated the amount of the credit they will ask, and are apparently waiting until their forces in Tonquin, which by November lst will amount to 7,000 men, have performed some great feat. There are, it is said, hesita- tions about this feat, the Admiral in command in Tonquin having diicovered that Bacninh, the first place to be attacked, is defended by heavy guns, and that his artillery will be deficient. It is probable, however, that some desperate attempt will be made, and that if the Black Flags are defeated the Chamber will give M. Ferry a majority. On the other hand, a repulse would be almost fatal to the Ministry, unless, as is hoped, M. Ferry accepts the decision of the Chamber, changes his Foreign Minister, and turns his attention wholly to domestic affairs.
