The European Crises.

Manawatu Herald, 25 January 1898, Page 2

The European Crises.

GRAVITY OF RELATIONS WITH RUSSIA. JAPAN VIRTUALLY AN ALLY. Nearly all the English newspapers are commenting on the gravity of the relations with Russia, and the fact thai; England and Japan are virtually allied.

Telegrams from Pekin state that the Russian Minister 13 intimidating China in regard to her negotiations with Great Britain for the loan t and the prospects of hef" continuing them are considered doubtful, Mr Chamberlain, in the course of his speech at Liverpool, said there were many clouds on the horizon, and the Government relied on the patriotism of the people to uphold the honour and interest of the country. in« How first-class warships Hannibal and Illustrious are being sent to Chinese waters. Both are firgt-elasg barbette ships of 14,900 tons, built last year, their oosts being £867,000 and £885,000 respectively. Japan is despatching nine war* ships, <their destination probably being Weihaiwei. The Mikado will inspect the squadron before its departure. Japan has ttotistitatej a military conscription for mobilisation of the forces. The Standard says events are rapidly shaping towards an iasqa and the putting of the declarations of Sir Michael Hicks-Beach and other members of the Government to the test. The paper iajfl,"H' R'issia is permitted to coerce China to reject the British terms and affect our influence, a crucial trial of strength must ensue." The German newspapers are supporting the English demands for the freedom of trade with China. Prance is despatching to China the armoured conning-tower battleship Bruix, a vessel of 4?54 tons, and the armoured cruiser Vauban, 6208 tons Admiral Besnard, Minister of Marine, has asked the Chamber of Deputies to sanction a large grant to meet the expense of sending reinforcements to the Chinese Squadron.