DIPLOMATIC EYES.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume XII, Issue 122, 25 May 1877, Page 4

DIPLOMATIC EYES.

At the time that General Ignatieff commenced his recent tour it was thought that, his eyes were particularly useful, as affording an excuse for. rapid locomotion. When so eminent a person was suffering, it was only natuial that he should consult the first oculiatt, in the great European centres, and if in the pursuit of the balm of Gilead or some other remedy, he should have been brought into contact with the leading politicals of the day, it was understood to be ocly an accidental advantage. entirely due to the ophthalmic trouble. Since his arrival in London, the General has consulted an eminent specialist and we hear that he is suffering from a complaint, or rather enjoying an advantage, which, as far us we are aware, ia uniqne among diplomatists. There is an obstruction of one of the tear-ducts, so that one side of his face is constantly bedewed by a gentle flow of tears, whilst th« other has quite a happy expression. The fifth nerve has been hitherto looked upon as one of peculiar iaterest to diplomatists, because its division or paralysis removed all expression I torn the face, but how much more interesting ia the tear-duct. It is, no doubt, very often desirable for a diplomatist to present -a sphinx-like unreadable expression, but how much more advantageous it must bo to be always ready with the appropriate aspect. If the gallant General converses with a philo-Slav he can turu uia lachrymose aide to his friend and deplore the misfortunes of tbe Christiana. If, on the other hand, he is tulking to au individual who is opposed to territorial changes, ha can keep his cheerful cheek to his companion and give an assuriug smile.— Medical Examiner.