There has been practically no news from Russia this week
as to the internal situation. The disorders in the Caucasus continue, and killings by the hundred are frequently reported ; but the victims are slain in race quarrels between Mahommedans andArmenians rather than in struggles between the officials and the people ; and both in the Caucasus and Poland the Government is threatening or enforcing martial law. An appearance of order will, therefore,`he presently restored. There is talk also of a general strike, especially on all railways, to commence to-day ; but such a movement is one of the most difficult things in the world to organise. On the other hand, statements are made every day of the intention of the Czar to summon some sort of representative body; but they are either denied on the morrow, or whittled away into Palace rumours, or explained as orders for new Commissions of Inquiry, which is the Emperor's method of avoiding the twofold pressure from Liberals and Reactionaries. Nothing, it seems evident, will be actually done until the result of the "great battle" between Mukden and the Sha-ho has been ascertained. If that struggle goes against Russia, a wave of opinion within the Army may force the Czar to "stop the war," and decide in internal politics for one side or the other.
