CONTINENTAL.

New Zealand Mail, Issue 1106, 12 May 1893, Page 36

CONTINENTAL.

Christiania, May 5. The Norwegians are discontented with the new Conservative Cabinet, and the crisis is becoming grave. Christiana, May 7. The new Tory Government, which recently succeeded the Steen Administration, has been defeated on a want of confidence motion. Paris, May 3. News from Dahomey reports that King Behanzin has offered to submit to the French, and negotiations are now going on as to the place of exile to which he is to be deported. It is now stated that M. Billot will Bucceed M. Waddington as French Ambassador in London. In addressing the Behring Sea Arbitration Commission, Mr E. J. Phelps, the United States delegate, spoke for 40 hours. Paris, May 4. Marshal Macmahon is ill. Paris, May 7. It is estimated that the French Budget for 1894 will show a deficit of 121,000,000 francs (L 4,840,000). Berlin, May 3. _ In passing through Lucerne, on his return from Rome, Emperor William, in reply to the greetings of the people, toasted to permanent friendship between Germany and Switzerland. The Emperor has approved of the terms of the compromise over the Army Bill. Berlin, May 3. Chancellor Von Caprivi, by reducing the number of men and also the amount of taxation, has effected a compromise with the Centre Party over the Army Bill, which is now likely to pass. The Emperor and Empress have returned from their visit to Rome. Berlin, May 4. Few members of the Centre are inclined to the compromise, and it is believed that the Army Bill will be rejected, despite a powerful appeal by the Chancellor to make the sacrifice necessary to maintain the peace of Europe and the safety and honour of Germany. He threatened to dissolve the Reichstag if the Bill were rejected. Chancellor Von Caprivi stated in the Reichstag to-day that even if there was an appeal to the country in regard to the Army Bill, the Government would still adhere to the terms of the compromise. Berlin, May 5. Herr Richter, one of the foremost opponents of the Array Bill, declares that only the full display of the extreme fighting strength of the nation will satisfy the Emperor. (special.) Berlin, May 4. Chancellor Von Caprivi is increasing his efforts to bring about a compromise over the Army Bill and has slightly reduced the numbers by which he proposes to increase the strength of the army on a peace footing. He insists, however, on the two years' service. In the course of a speech in the Reichstag, he said he wan doubtful of the ability of Germany to attack France, and the rejection of the Bill would impress that Power with their weakness and compel the Germans, in the event of attack, to retire behind the Rhine. London, May 5. The Berlin correspondent of the Daily News wires that the Emperor William is exhibiting considerable anxiety on account of the deadlock which has occurred over the Army Bill. He sent for Chancellor Von Caprivi at midnight, and, as the result of a long conference, authorised him to dissolve the Reichstag in the event of the rejection of the measure. (PRESS ASSOCIATION.) Berlin, May 7. The Reichstag has rejected the Army Bill by a majority of 48. Crowds filled the streets, and cheered heartily when the news became known. The excitement is described as equal to that after the first battle of the FrancoGerman war in 1870. The Emperor immediately dissolved Parliament, and ordered a general election. Berlin, May 8. A splib has occurred in'the Freisinnige Party. The Socialists are jubilant, and expect an accession of strength at the polls. It is proposed to induce Bismarck to form a separate party. The division was the longest on record. Newspaper opinions are divided according to party leanings. There is a general concensus of opinion, however, in Europe that a grave crisis in German affairs has arrived. Paris, May 8. The French press advise silence at the present juncture, in order not to play into the hands of Von Caprivi and (strengthen his position. Berlin, May 8.

The local press doubts Count 7on Caprivi's success at the forthcoming elections, and declares that Germania's limit

has been reached by the never-ceasing military pressure, France and Italy are stated to be profoundly impressed by the political crisis. The elections take place on 15th June. London, May 9.

The rejection of the Army Bill by the Reichstag has excited exultation in France and Russia. The Italian press is of opinion that it may possibly imperil the peace of Europe. Pome, May 8. The Pope is preparing an Encyclical to the Great Powers on the question of military burdens. He suggests the disarmament of Austria, Switzerland, Bel gium and Spain, but is willing that Russia should only partly disarm. Ottawa, May 8 ; The French press in the Dominion alleges that the Government officials have tampered with the census and disfranchised 50,000 Frenchmen. Paris, May 8. The Chamber of Deputies has unanimously resolved in favour of the compulsory registration of foreigners, and a watch being kept on their changing residence.