CONSOLS AND PEACE PROSPECTS.

Dominion, Volume 2, Issue 431, 13 February 1909, Page 4

CONSOLS AND PEACE PROSPECTS.

] _ A cabls message published this morn■'ing announces a marked advance-in British consols,, which are now quoted at i £84 155., an advance for the week of £l 1 6s. This may 1 ' in tho circumstances bo i taken as indicating that recent happenings in Europe have induced a more hopeful outlook ,in the relations of the nations of tho world.- The determination of the British Government to maintain tho two-Power, standard of the British Navy; l tho satisfactory understanding arrivedat between France and Germany in rolation to, Morocco; tho enthusiasm in England concerning the raising of tho Territorials; and tho cordial ■ reception of King. Edward and Queen Alexandra in Berlin must all be regarded. as contributing factors to the more buoyant tone of. the money market. Probably tho visit of the King to his nephew tho Kaiser is after all the most important factor in tho situation. His Majesty's tact and judgment in the realms , of national diplomacy amount to positive genius. His influence on the world's politics transcends that'of any. living monarch or statesman, and it loses none of its effectiveness from the fact .that it is usually exercised in unobtrusive fashion and when least expected. His visits abroad are almost invariably followed by important happenings, all tending in the end lo the strengthening of the position of Britain and assisting in promoV ing the world's peace. His present journey to Germany appears to been timed with fine discrimination, and has had a most gratifying effect. That it will lead to a better understanding between i Britain and Germany is certain—that its effect will bo of long duration can only bo hoped for.