The situation in Hungary is still complicated. At the end
of last week Count Andrassy had an interview with the King, and, on being invited to form a Government, declined owing to the King's refusal to yield on the military question. At the same time, he was entrusted with a message to the Coalition, which is reported to have had some effect in modifying the reluctance of that party to take office unconditionally. The alternative is to risk another suspension of the Constitu- tion, and the feeling seems to be growing that to force such a crisis is unworthy of the popular party. M. Kossuth is said to be in favour of taking office, on the ground that it is the Coalition's first duty to obtain control of the administra- tive power, and thereby put itself into a position to treat on reasonable terms with the Crown. The reply to the King's message has not yet been delivered, but it is believed to be reasonable, and to suggest terms which the King may be able to accept. Though affairs are still in confusion, there is at least a ray of hope in the more moderate attitude which the Coalition leaders are taking up on the question of office. They see that obstruction of the whole Goverment machine will react as much against themselves as against the King.
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