The Globe. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 1876.

Globe, Volume VII, Issue 770, 8 December 1876, Page 2

The Globe. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 1876.

An European war seems to be impending. Things have arrived at that state from which war is the natural outcome. The interests and feelings of two powerful nations are arrayed against each other. Russia has played her cards well. Indirectly she stirred up the Servian revolt, and indirectly she maintained the rebellion. This is now evident to all; and is implicitly admitted by the first statesman in Europe. Prince Bismarck, in his speech at a Parliamentary dinner, reported in the telegrams of yesterday’s issue, said: “He hoped England “ would not openly declare war against “ Russia, but would only act indirectly, “ similar to Russia’s action towards “ Servia.” As far back as July, Russian soldiers began to arrive in Servia in two and threes. Encouraged by the attitude of the English Liberal press, the twos and threes of July swelled into hundreds in August, and then again, still encouraged by the Liberal leaders, rose to thousands in the later months; until, at last, all reticence was laid aside, and Russian troops now pour into the provinces led by officers of their own. It is evident that Russia is pledged to warlike action. Her ultimatum is the autonomy of the 'Provinces under her own protectorate with the temporary occupation of Bulgaria. English opinion and feeling are in direct opposition to her demands. The encouragement given by Mr Gladstone and other Liberals to the proRussian feeling has had no permanent effect. The nation has reverted again in its cooler moments to its old policy—the policy which necessitated the Crimea war. In the midst of all the excitement created by Turkish atrocities, which it now appears have been grossly exaggerated under the influence of party and sectarian influences, the most influential journals kept their heads cool, and kept an eye upon the movements and machinations of Russia. These journals —the Pall Mall, for example—steadily upheld the policy of the Government. Gradually the policy has come to be again approved by the people of England, and thus England stands face to face with her ancient adversary. And that she means to maintain her present attitude is clear from the action already taken. Her fleet is still in Besika Bay; Lloyds have been required to furnish a list of vessels fitted to carry troops ; Lord Napier has been directed to hold himself in readiness to assume the command of the army ; and plans for the defence of Constantinople have been prepared, and forwarded to that city. These are all warlike movements, and show that the change in English feeling is not a mere change of sentiment, but that it means fighting, if Russia persists in her present or threatened course. Meanwhile the Conference of European Powers intervenes, and this Conference is the hope of those who desire the continuance of a lasting peace. It would bo idle to speculate npou the recommendations that may be made by the Great Powers, but one thing is apparent, that the remaining Great Powers do not care to involve themselves in the impending struggle. Either the lack of money or the loss of allies, may so cripple Russia, that she may yet be induced to withdraw from the path upon which she has entered, and in which she cannot be allowed to obtain either profit or glory. Should she do so, war will be averted, not otherwise. A few weeks more, and the end will be clearly perceived—Peace or War.