p. 203 | The State of Europe

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Nov 25, 1862

The State of Europe.

THE following is from the London Observer:

'To even a casual observer it is apparent that Europe is gradually but surely drifting into a convulsion. Notwithstanding that respective European governments profess to be at unity with all neighboring powers, that emperors, kings, and diplomats are studiously polite to one another, and that professions of friendship are on their lips, there is much reason to fear that they mutually distrust one another, and are quietly preparing for the storm which is believed to be impending. Everywhere a spirit of uneasiness seems to pervade Europe. Russia, for instance, would appear to be on the verge of a revolution, which may burst forth at any moment. General dissatisfaction is felt in the army, on which the Czar solely relies. A vast conspiracy exists, not only among the soldiery, but also among the officers. A secret society, something after the principle of Ribbonism in Ireland, appears to have been formed; and when the work of assassination is decided upon, parties are elected to carry out the sentence of the tribunal. The nobles and the middle class population are also disaffected, and the numerous incendiary fires in all parts of the kingdom indicate how widely the conspiracy has spread. Poland shows unmistakable signs that ere long it will be in a state of convulsion; indeed, actual revolution is only kept down by martial law and the presence of a large army. With these internal sources of disquiet existing in his empire, the Czar has thought it a favorable opportunity to enter into a treaty (it is said of a very intimate character) with France and Italy—a combination that looks ominous for the future peace of Europe, and especially threatening to England.'