European Political Turmoil and Distress of Nations
POLITICAL matters in Europe are, as ever, in a turmoil. No one knows how soon there may be a collapse of the Floquet régime; the following of Boulanger is constantly increasing, and many think that the very existence of the French republic is threatened. The Progressive party in Germany, by which is meant those in favor of limiting the royal power, criticise the Government in asking for an additional sum of 3,500,000 marks ($830,000) for the royal family. No necessity could be shown by the supporters of the bill for the increase, while it is sufficiently proved that the present income is every way sufficient, and the wealth of the royal family is enormous. Their lands are so extensive as to require division into seventy-seven stewardships, each comprising a number of farms. And thus German imperialism and large standing armies are crushing the very life out of the people, not only of Germany but of other countries of the Old World. Meanwhile Germany is ready to enter into a defensive alliance with England; and Prince Bismarck warns England that she “should put her house in order,” that she may be prepared for an attack from France. What turn the affairs may next take, what new figure tomorrow’s political kaleidoscope may show, no one can tell. Truly it is but a fulfillment of our Saviour’s words, “Distress of nations with perplexity.” The coming of the Lord draweth nigh.