Portugal.

Manawatu Herald, Volume III, Issue III, 16 May 1891, Page 2

Portugal.

Two women have been arrested for exploding a bomb in the office of the Minister of the Interior. Owing to the run on the Bank of Portugal an official decree has been issued by the Government ordering a suspension of payments for sixty days. This step has caused a panic throughout the country. The Daily News states that Lord Salisbury has extended the term of the modus vivendi with Portugal. The financial position in Lisbon has disturbed the money and stock markets, and Portuguese stocks have fallen 15 since the Stock Exchange settlement. Owing to the disorder arising from the financial panic, the troops and police are guarding the banks and public buildings throughout Portugal. The scarcity of coin is greatly felt, and as the public refuse to accept paper money, trade is paralysed. It is rumoured that a Government decree will be issued to-morrow, ordering a forced note currency. The financial position in Portugal has caused a panic on the Paris Bourse, and the situation is regarded as grave. Stocks have collapsed. i The London and Paris Banks are refusing to cash notes issued by the Portuguese Banks. A revolution is looked upon as she probable outcome of the crisis, though it is doubtful whether the revolutionists would succeed in their endeavours to bring about a better state of things. It is reported here that the AngloPortuguese difficulty in Southern Africa has been settled, and that perfect tranquility prevails. The financial situation is improving, and the Government has authorised the issue of bank notes of 1000 and 500 reis. America. Forest fires are raging in Central Michigan, the flames covering an area of 180 miles by 70 miles,

The Chicago North-western Bail- < way line is on fire in several places, i Many townships are completely i surrounded by the flames. The forest fires in Michigan are : spreading, and the towns of Freesoil, Sherman, Branch, and Kuster have been destroyed. A train carrying 100 men to assist in combatting the forest fires in Michigan was wrecked and burned. Eight men were killed.