30 MARCH 1872, Page 2

The French Government has finally determined to abolish all forms

of passport except the expensive one, and has absolutely pro- hibited any one from landing without a passport visa by the French Consul, who charges ten francs. No motive is assigned for an order which will greatly diminish the influx of visitors to Paris, and as it is well known that passports do not stop conspirators, the object must be to get a little money. If so, the Government- should sell permits at the Railway Stations printed like tickets, and so at least reduce the annoyance to the smallest proportions. It is a ruinous method of raising money, but it would not drive so many people who would prefer to pass through Paris to select the- Belgian route.