The Sun.
London, England, 1868-03-28 00:00:00

THE SUN, LONDON, SATURDAY EVENING, MARCH 28, 1868

settled is whether or not the decision is
to be made now, or left to the judgment of
a new Parliament ; and this course should
be kept plainly in sight by all who are en-
gaged in the discussion of the matter. If this be
done, we have no doubt as to the result they will
arrive at, and that it will be one of satisfaction to the
country and of credit to themselves. The present
year is not a suitable time to witness the strife of
faction, and by all means let the House distinguish
between a great public question of grave importance
and the vigorous desire of a party to make political
capital out of the exigencies of the occasion. By
this day week it is to be hoped that the doubts and
speculations now so rife will be set at rest by the
decisive majority which shall !approve of the policy
of Ministers, and again vindicate the character and
do honour to the judgment of the House of Com-

MODS.

Last evening in the House of Commons Mr.
HousFALL put a question to Lord STANLEY respect-
ing a war which, though attracting a good deal of
attention in the other hemisphere, has not been
estimated at its due importance in this. The struggle
between Brazil and Paraguay, however, belongs to
that class of wars which most especially appeal to
the sympathies of the British people. A brave and
resolute little state is fighting staunchly for its
national independence against an ambitious and
aggressive neighbour of far greater strength. Month
after month the struggle has gone on, while the
news which has reached the outer world has
been unreliable and uncertain. The Allies
supply the only direct information which reaches
Europe, the Paraguayans being by their position
cut off from the outer world ; but from such intern-
, gence as has crept through other channels, we have
beard of their unflinching courage, their unshaken
devotion to their PRESIDENT, and their unanimous
determination to submit to any hardship rather than
yield to the domination of Brazil. Lord STANLEY,
in his reply to Mr. HORSFALL, called it " a useless
and purposeless war ;" but there is no lack of a de-
finite purpose on the part of Brazil. It is the old
story of Prussia and Denmark, Russia and Turkey,
the story that has been repeated a hundred times i❑
the records of history, ancient and modern, and in
the time of EisoP himself found a paraphrase in his
fable of the Wolf and the Lamb. The Brazilian
Empire, large as is its share of the South American
Continent, is not large enough to please its rulers,
and accordingly they have picked a quarrel with a
small and inoffensive neighbour, probably not im-
agining that the Paraguayans would dream of so
prolonged and resolute a resistance. The South
American Republics, however, learned a valuable
lesson in their War of Independence against Spain
—a lesson which they have never forgotten. They
learned what can be accomplished against overwhelm-
ing odds by the unanimous resolution of a people.
Chili showed her knowledge of this truth a few
years back when she gallantly resisted the force of
Spain, and Paraguay has been no less bold in the
front which she opposed to Brazilian aggression.
Lord STANLEY says that the English Government
have offered no mediation because none has been
asked, and he did not think the offer of it would be
accepted ; at the same time, if such a request was
made, her MAJESTY'S Government would gladly
exert themselves to bring about a reconciliation,
either alone or in concert with any other power.
This, of course, is consistent with diplomatic
etiquette, and Lord STANLEY has treated the
Brazilians very gently. We hope and believe,
however, that no such mediation will be sought or
needed, but that Paraguay will be able to maintain
her ground and drive back the invaders discomfited.
Already, there is disunion in the camp of the Allies,
and great disaffection in parts of the Argentine
Confederation. Cholera, too, has been fighting the
battles of Paraguay with deadly and merciless
weapons. In the camp and in the neighbouring
cities the deaths are numbered by the hundred,
and the consequent panic has been great. The
Allied fleet has found it impossible to force a
passage past the forts of the Paraguayans,
and the combined efforts of the naval and military
commanders have failed to dislodge LOPEZ from his
entrenchments. Under these circumstances it is
very unlikely that the Paraguayan President will
invoke the intercession of any European Power to
patch up the quarrel, to recommend concessions on
both sides, and leave the whole question to be re-
opened by Brazilian ambition on the first oppor-
tunity. The effort has been a desperate one on the
part of the smaller State. The people have felt
that their national existence was at stake, and they
have made every sacrifice, have taxed every re-
source, and strained every nerve to make it. At
another time they might be unable or unwilling to
repeat the effort, Surely, then, it is better to per-
severe now when the tide of events is turning in
their favour, and teach the Brazilians a lesson once
for all that henceforward the little State may be
left to flourish unmolested, and maintain its
cherished independence.

All sorts of politicians, and the public in general,
will rejoice to find that Lord DERBY is so far re-
stored to health that be has been enabled to com-
municate with Lord DARTMOUTH in reply to a re-
solution forwarded to him expressive of the regret
of the National Union of Conservative and Consti-
tutional Associations at his retirement. The noble
earl's remarks are to the purpose, as they always
are, and testify to the deep regret which he himself
felt at being compelled to withdraw from the ser-
vice of his Sovereign, and to sever his
official connection with a party which have
honoured him with its confidence for so many years.
It is impossible not to sympathise with the noblelord
in this sentiment, and those who have lately wit-
nessed his zeal and devotion to his party, and the
ability with which be discharged the duties of his
exalted station, will fully appreciate the trial it
must have been to take leave of those with whom
he was so long associated in the public service of
the country. The letter concludes, however,
with a more cheering intimation, for Lord
DERBY declares that it was satisfactory to
him to be so worthily succeeded ; and, to use his
words, " to transfer the office which I have had the
honour of holding to one whose co-operation and
friendship I had enjoyed for more than twenty
years, and who I am persuaded will prove himself
not unmindful of the great constitutional principles
which it has been the study of my life to uphold,
and to which, so far as my health will permit,
I shalt not cease to give my earnest
though inefficient support." The mantle
has indeed descended upon Mr. DISRAELI
in troublous times, but we believe that he will
prove fully equal to the emergency ; and it is a
testimony alike honourable to himself and his suc-
cessor that Lord DERBY has just given. We hope
that the country may yet enjoy for many years the
advantages of the noble Earl's services whenever he
can render them without detriment to his health,
and freed from the overwhelming burden of place,
and also the great responsibilities of a party
leader, he may perhaps better preserve than
he has done of late his health and strength,
and be more free from the painful attacks to which
he has been so unfortunately subject. It is gra-
tifying to find that he can again take an interest in

public matters, and we feel assured that those who
forgot the differences of political controversy in re-
gretting the circumstances that led to his retire-
ment, will now as truly rejoice at his comparative
restoration to health, and trust with his friends that
the improvement may become yet more effectual
and remain as permanent as possible.

We have unquestionably a very difficult task in
the administration of India, and it is not surprising
if we occasionally fail in giving satisfaction to our-
selves or the people. The House of Commons last
night listened to a somewhat lengthened discussion,
in which every one had some fault to find with the
existing state of affairs, some suggestion to make,
and some change to recommend. The subject was
opened by Lord W. HAY, who called the attention
of the House to the correspondence respecting the
British and native systems of government.
The noble lord contended that the real differ-

ence was our rule was progressive and improv-
ing, while that of the natives was retrograde
and incapable of improvement. We have but to
look at the state of India before we set foot in it, or
to compare the condition of States wholly under
native control with our own dominions to, perceive
the vital difference between the two systems. Lord
W. HAY quoted a passage from an able French
writer, who, after visiting India, expressed his wish
that the English might extend their dominions from
the Sutlej to the Indus. Nevertheless there are
great failings in our manner of administration, and
we suffer from one especial drawback. We
have never succeeded in conciliating the affec-
tions of the people. Various expectations were
given last night, but the true one seems to be the
want of sympathy, the indifference with which
native feeling and prejudices are treated, the harsh
and careless manner in which regulations are ap-
plied. For instance, a new zeal for sanitary reform
orders that the branches of all trees within 100
yards of a native village shall be shorn of their
branches, while these trees are, many of them, ob-
jects of peculiar veneration. Again, the manner
in which the finances are collected cannot be
regarded by the people otherwise than op-
pressive. The salt tax, imposed on what
is in India a necessity of life, presses heavily on
the poorer classes, and other taxes are collected
with equal disregard of the popular wants. Sir
STAFFORD NORTHCOTE, in an able and temperate
speech, took a fair view of the case ; and we are
glad to find that an Indian debate no longer empties
the benches. We want more interest felt in India
and the Indians, at home as well as in Asia ; and
until we get it we shall never sec our rule firmly
established or our presence effecting the good and
conferring the blessings which it ought to do.

LATEST INTELL LGENCE.

(REUTER'S TELEGRAMS.)
BELGIUM.

BRUSSELS, March 28.

Despatches received here state that a riot com-
menced yesterday morning at the villages of Far-
ciennes and Lambussart, and extended to Tamines.
The rioters dispersed in the evening, declaring that
they would return to-day to put a stop to the work
at the collieries.

:CORRESPONDENCE FROM PARIS.

it (FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.)
PARIS, FRIDAY, March 27.
hhll • - 4.
Prince Napoleon was at Weimar he had an
Werviow with the Prime Minister of the Grand Duke,
Heft von Watzlorff, and the two diplomatists discussed
together the affairs of Germany. The Minister expressed
his apprehensions that France would interpose sooner or
later with an armed force, in order to restore the Ex-King
of Hanover. The Prince scouted such an idea utterly.
He said, " How can anyone possibly believe that my
cousin would offer himself as the protector of a pre-
tended legitimacy ; above all, in favour of the King
of Hanover, who has always looked upon us Napo-
leons with contempt scarcely concealed, and who did
his utmost in 1359 to make Germany declare declare war
against France in behalf of Austria, a war which was pre-
vented only by the wise moderation of Prussia ? We
French are not disposed to sacrifice our soldiers, except
when the honour or the interest of France can gain some-
thing by it ; certainly not in order to replace upon their
thrones Princes who are perfectly indifferent to us, and
who have, moreover, merited their fate." The Prince
went On to say that France could not possibly have any
interest in restoring King George, and that all the rumours
to the contrary were merely got up by his agents at Paris,
who were spending thousands of francs without the least
chance of return.

The ukase just published by the Czir blotting out
Poland from the map of Europe is causing some scnsation
here. The measure has been taken at the very moment
when there were rumours of a fresh manifestation on be-
half of Poland by France, Austria, and Prussia, and
would seem like a direct defiance of them. It remains to
bo seen if Napoleon will allow this arbitrary decree to go-
forth without at least a protest. More than than that is
not to he expected in these days.

A very important decision has just been giAren by tl.,
Court of Appeal with regard to the pros. As your
reados are aware, it was under the old law forbidden to
publish a newspaper without previous authorisation by
the Government. The proprietors of a journal called
Satan omitted to obtain the necessary authorisation, and
they were prosecuted and condemned for having issued
their paper four days ; each distinct issue was treated as a
separate offence, and an ccumulated punishment was
inflicted. The proprietors appealed, but the fourfold
penalty was confirmed.

The chief editor of the Courrier Francais, who is now in
prison for a press offence, has addressed a very strong
letter of remonstrance to the Government officials. It
appears that they have not only suppressed him,
but also his journal, so far as the street sale
is concerned ; and they will not allow the new
editors to hold any consultation with him as re-
gards the winding up of the affairs of the
journal, and settling with the creditors. In spite of all
the perils and hardships to which Opposition journalists
are exposed, a new Democratic paper is about to be started
at Rennes, where, it will be remembered, the " anarchical
placards " Were issued a few days ago.
The Princess Metternich, who, after the Empress, is the
queen of fashion, gave last night her last soiree for the
season, the remaining weeks of Lent being strictly observed
at the Austrian Embassy. The Princess was attired com-
pletely in white satin, without any ornaments. Twelve
hundred guests endeavoured, but in vain, to circulate
through the rooms of the embassy. They included the
most distinguished men of all parties. Imperialists like
Baron J6rome David, Orleanists like M. Berryer, Minis-
ters like M. Duruy, great capitalists like the Rothschilds
and diplomatists like Lord Lyons.
Adelina Patti is an immense favourite here, bothfor her
musical powers and for her personal qualities. A few
days ago one of our great ladies gave a special representa-
tion of the " Trovatore " at the Thettre Italien on behalf
of the schools of St. Joseph, established for poor children.
Patti took the part of Leonora, and was presented with
her usual douceur of £l2O. She refused to take it, and
when the money was forced upon her she put down her
name as a subscriber to the schools for the same amount.

The Paris papers are taking very great interest in the
forthcoming debate in your Parliament with regard •die the
Irish Church. The Elendard, a Liberal Ronan (Altdiotic
?aper, after giving the address presenled by the tionnitu-
tional Association against the disestablishment of the
Irish Church, inasmuch as it will tend to the great dis-
muragement of the Protestant religion in the United
Kingdom and elsewhere, says sarcastically : " And Pro-
testantism pretends to be only a liberal reaction against
the intolerance of the Roman Church." This, of course,
is legitimate comment on the part of a journalist support-
ing a sovereign who recognises and endows all religions.
In fact, for once the Paris journals are all agreed.
The Ultramontane papers of course desire the down-
fall of the Irish Protestant Church, because it is
Protestant ; the moderate Roman ( atho:ic papers desire
it because the maintenance of an exclusive Church is
opposed to the French system of endowing all ; the free-
thinking papers because they detest all religious establish-
ments.

Six-and-thirty years ago the Czar Nicholas de:reed tl.a%
the kingdom of Foland should form an integ; al part f
the Russian Empire, and the upholders of Lurapcan
despotisms cried " Finis Polonize !" Since then the
doomed State has from time to time shown signs of life
more or less vigorous. Put each manifestation has only
prepared the way for that sad end which has now befallen
the unhappy country. An Imperial ukase has just been
issued suppressing the central administrative institutions
of Poland, and assimilating them to those of Russia. Pre-
viously to this the teaching of the Polish language had
been forbidden, and the profession of the Polish (the
Roman Catholic) religion put under intolerable restraints.
The very name of Poland is now blotted out, and the
old kingdom is to be called the Vistuline Province.
It is the most melancholy instance in modern
times of might ruthlessly prevailing over right.
Twenty years ago, when Austria, Russia, and Prussia
revoked the treaty of 1815, which constituted
Cracow a free republic, England, France, Sweden,
and Turkey protested. The protest was, of course,
useless so far as any advantage to Poland was concerned,
but it left on record a condemnation on the part of four
Powers of a most shameful and flagitious outrage upon the
morals of Europe. This time, we presume, there will not
be even a single despatch Upon the subjec , for, says every
State, "Am I my brother's keeper ?"

Letters from Florence say that at the tame of wr:ting
there was great uncertainty as to whether the illacinato
(corn-grinding) would pass. It is tine that the pro-
posal was first made by the Opposition, and that it was
taken up by their successors, the. present Ministers. But
for all that, Rattazzi and his party are most unpatriotically
throwing every obstacle in the way of the Government.
Should they succeed in defeating their own measure it is
difficult to see how Italy can be saved from at least a
financial collapse. The-position of that country, especially
the factious conduct of her statesmen, is one of the most
lamentable disappointments that ever befel the lovers of
constitutional government.

It would seem that Italy and Prussia are on good terms.
The Crown Prince of Prussia is going to be present at the
wedding of the Crown Prince of Italy.
The Paris correspondent of the Daily Telegraph hears
that the French army of occupation in the Papal States is
to be reduced to 4,000 men, who are to occupy Civita
Vecchia.

The torchlight procession which accompanied the re-
mains of Mania to their new resting-place in St. Mark's,
at Venice, was a most gorgeous spectacle. At seven
o'clock, just as darkness had set in, the ceremony began.
The coffin was borne by sailors of the Italian fleet, and
being carried up the steps was deposited in the centre of
the galley. Your captains with drawn swords stood at
each corner of the catafalque, while soldiers of the National
Guard stationed on the lower steps presented arms.
The funeral galley then went majestically forward,
being propelled by sixty rowers. Notwithstanding
the sounds of solemn music the general appearance was
that of a fairy scene elaborately got up on the tranquil
lake. Three or four hundred gondolas, radiant with
various-coloured lights, accompanied the new Bucentaur,
and when the squadron entered the Rialto and then the
Grand Canal, the brilliant illumination of the palace,
mingling with the reflection on the waters occasioned by
the numerous gondolas, presented a spectacle which it is
impossible to describe. Along the quays, the bridges, the
promenades, and at the windows of the palaces, were
immense crowds of observers. At the festooned balconies
were groups of women, who appeared to have started from
the canvas of Paul Veronese. The crowning display took
place in the Piazza, the noblest square in the world. As
the coffin appeared a great roar of applause went up from
the vast multitude—strange concomitant to a funeral pro-
cession. The body was finally deposited in a porphyry
sarcophagus, supported by two lions, stationed in the
portico of St. Mark's.
Prussia has received a severe check in the elections
which took place last week for the German Customs Par-
liament. The Wfirtemberg electors have by large ma-
jorities defeated most of the candidates in favour of the
union of that country with Prussia. It should be under-
stood that the reason of this opposition is that Wiirtemberg
is extremely liberal ; is in fact the most democratic of all
the German States, and does not relish submitting itself
to the will of Bismarck.

The disturbances at Montigney•sur-Sambre have been
most alarming, There was a desperate fight between the
people and the military, and no fewer than ten persons
were killed. Cavalry and infantry were despatched in
large numbers from Brussels and other towns. It is ste.tod
that the disturbances had not a political origin. Our usual
Belgian papers have failed to arrive, so that we are without
PArticl4lll9 t? the Ai? of the rigt,