Very great importance is attached in Germany to the state-
meat that on the :Ind inst. the Emperor slipped upon an oak floor, and injured his knee somewhat severely. It is believed that this accident, which has occurred twice, is due to the Emperor's failing strength, and it is felt that with the close of his life a great crisis will arrive in German affairs. The Crown Prince is supposed to entertain political opinions differing from those of his father, and with which Prince Bismarck would make no effort to agree. All kinds of new influences would come into play, especially in home politics, and the civilian element would regain some authority in affairs. We record the anxiety manifested, however, rather as a fact in the situa- tion, than as entirely well founded. Except the alarm mani- fested in some quarters, there is no evidence that the Emperor is any nearer his end than he was, while all history shows that calculations founded on the disposition of an Heir-Apparent are almost invariably wrong. The circumstances which sur- round a throne are apt to be too strong for individual volition, and Prince Bismarck, who has managed so many parties, may be able to serve, or control, widely different men.
