The Russians declare they have won a diplomatic victory, and
M. Witte is said on his return to his hotel to have indulged in a burst of self-praise for his successful firmness, which is, we hope, misreported. The general surprise at the decision of Tokio is, however, so acute that the world is aflame with curiosity as to the true motive of the Mikado's Government. It all arises, say many, from the general " magnanimity " of the Japanese, who are taught by their code of Bushido to spare the defeated ; but that seems a
• little viewy. The Japanese have exhibited singular self- control, and freedom from the desire of vainglory ; but statesmen do not abandon national claims to large sums of money without grave reason. It is said, but not, we believe, truly, that great financiers refused to both Govern- ments further aid unless peace were made ; and it is also said that the Japanese statesmen dreaded the long and exhausting war which Russia could wage if driven beyond the Khingan Mountains ; but the report which ex- plains most is one about our own Treaty with Japan. This
Treaty is to be "extended," and, it is said, our Government, aware that the equilibrium in Europe had been disturbed by the war, offered, if peace were made, to guarantee the posses- sions acquired by Japan, on condition that if India were attacked Japan would assist in its defence. The Japanese agreed, and peace was made. The report is much too serious a one to be discussed at the end of a paragraph, and, while generally approving, we must reserve our comments till further information is available.
