The Indianapolis journal. [volume] (Indianapolis [Ind.]) 1867-1904, 1885-03-28
THE AFGHAN TROUBLE.

1t is evident that England regards war with
Russia as imminent. The extraordinary call
for troops, and war preparations set in motion
on vast SCALE indicate that the trouble in
Afghanistan is anything but settled. Diplo-
matte conferences are being held, and every
thing possible is being done to avert hostile
collision; but the mobilization of troops in
England and in India is proceeding with the
greatest expedition, while arms and munitions
of war and food for troops in the field are
being prepared in vast quantities. Swayed
by these warlike preparations, the value Of
securities fuctuates wildly, and the price of
products of all kinds shows tendency to adj
vance,
It has been apparent from the first that
Russia would not be easily defeated in the ev-
ident intention of taking another step toward
the contamination of an ambition cherished
since Peters day, to secure a port on the In
dian ocean, through which the power Of Rus
STA could make itself felt in any Eastern ques-
ton that might arise. England naturally
views this plan with. distrust. Having vast
possessions in India, practically including the
entire country, the encroachment of any pow
er like that of the Gar can bpt be viewed
with well grounded apprehension Russia's
significant move could have no false interpre-
tation. 1t was taken, doubtless at what was
regarded as an opportune time, when the
home government was weakest, on account Of
Irish troubles and the vexatious and expens-
i've campaign in the Soudan. Certain it is
that Russia had carefully weighed the ques-
ton, and when the advance was begun it was
with the knowledge that it must provoke
hostilities on the part of that power hold
ing control of the territory adjacent to
Afghanistan. 1t were idle to hope that the
step would be retraced and the ancient boun-
Diary respected without some concession.
Russia expected war, and is probably ready for
the emergency. That desperate fight will
ensue seems now inevitable. It's outcome, of
course, cannot be predicted with anything like
certainty. Russia will have the advantage of
having her possessions contiguous, though
the seat of war is far removed from the scene
of most active operations. England, how
ever, while operating from great distance,
can mobilize thousands of native troops in
India, which, by being differed by British
commanders and armed with the best arms
thatcan be produced, may become very efficient
soldiers. The struggle, if it be not averted,
must be desperate one. The power Of Eng
land and Russia is enough to make the old
world rock when the signal for war is given.
Already the excitement is intense especially
so in London, where the business of getting
ready is going on day and night.
While the immediate results of this war can
affect but England, Russia and Afghanistan,
it must involve the interests of the civilized
world. While it is in progress, America and
other neutral powers will reap the advantage
of better demand for their products, where
by better prices are realized. But, while hos
tilities are going on, England will be crippled
there will be less healthful commerce on the
high seas and her seamen, instead of helping
make wealth, will be set to work destroying
it. The end means loss to all the world, and
the bill of damages will have to be settled.
There will come the reflex effect of war, and
time when financial distress is almost GER
tain to more than offset any gain that may be
made in trading on the extraordinary necessi-
ties of the case