The Feilding Star. TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 1885. Russia and England

Feilding Star, Volume VI, Issue 128, 14 April 1885, Page 2

The Feilding Star. TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 1885. Russia and England

— ♦ Since the unprovoked attack by the Russians on the Afghans which was made last week, we are without any further intelligence of collisions on the Indian frontier. Recent intelligence, however, forces upon us the knowledge that Russia is eager for war, and the Government of that country, by means of the Press, is taking every opportunity to provoke or justify it. It goes without saying that there is no such thing known in Russia as the freedom of the Press, therefore every line published in connection with, or having reference to public affairs, is authorised by the State officials. When we learn, therefore, that the St. Petersburg Press advocates the renouncement of the Declaration of Paris, it is safe to assume that Russia is desirous of having the same beliggerent rights with her fleet on her own coasts that she had before the Crimean War in 1854. Whether France and the other Great Powers will consent is doubtful, so that if Russia takes the initiative and withdraws entirely from tho Declaration, she may be evolved in complications which may only end in war with those nations which* were our allies when the Crimean War was terminated. Be this as it may we hope that Great Britain will fight the question out " for her own hand." It is an historical fact that our allies have always proved " a delusion and a snare" to our troops when in the field together. English arms have only been invariably successful when their allies have been acting under the chief control of British generals, and where they have been receiving the pay of mercenaries. The spirit of the nation is roused, and wiU not be imbued with peaceful feelings until the pride of Russia has been again humbled before British valour.