The Prussian Government, indeed, is slowly acquiring a de- finite
authority in the federation. The North Germans appear determined on the coercion of Denmark. The National societies all over the country have resolved to stand by Schleswig-Hol- stein. The official journal talks of the occupation of the two Duchies and Finland. So imminent does Denmark believe the quarrel to be, that all medical men have been warned to hold themselves in readiness to serve the State, mates in the mercan- tile marine have been required to serve in the Royal fleet, and all branches of the army have been placed on the war footing. These measures are energetically seconded by the Parliament and people, who have signed an address refusing to surrender the conquests of the Danish Crown. Gunboats of shallow draft are ordered for construction, and are expressly required to penetrate the German rivers. Denmark, though a weak State, is strong at sea, and has some notable advantages of its position. Zea- land, the citadel of the monarchy, is beyond the Prussian grasp. War by these accounts seems imminent, but Prussia is slow to move, and if the Austrian Empire is dissolved, the Germans will have other work on hand.
