4 JANUARY 1868, Page 7

Napoleon received Baron von Goltz, Ambassador from the Con- federation

of North Germany, in words somewhat formally arranged. He thanked the Ambassador for assuring him of the friendship of the King of Prussia, and believed he would con- tinue his "efforts" to maintain a friendly understanding between the two countries. It will be observed that the Emperor says no word of amity to the Confederation, but only to its President in his capacity of King of Prussia. In Paris the speech is con- sidered very " constrained."