CONTINENTAL.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 1604, 20 February 1867, Page 5

CONTINENTAL.

" France and Austria have concluded treaties of commerce and navigation, which come into operation with the new year. < The Prussian Government has laid a draft of the concfitution of the North German Confederation before a conference of deputies from the allied Governments, The proposed constitution contains a pro.* vision that in all matters referring to commerce or navigation the Federal Council, with the national representatives, nte to .exercise legislative powers. The Prussian Crown i 3 to be intrusted" with the authority of the leadership of the confederation, to declare v?ar and conclude treaties of peace, and to appoint amba«sador3 in its name. The King of Prussia is to hold the position of commander-in-cinef of all land and sea forces in North Germany, with power to order their being placed on a war footing. Kiel and Jande to be Federal war ports. The naval flag of the Federation to be trioolored, namely, black, white, and red. The members cd Parliament to be elected by a direct vote on universal suffrage. No payment to be made to members of Parliament. Public functionaries not to be eligible for seats. A treaty has been concluded between France and Italy, by which the latter takes upon herself the payment of the larger portion of the Pontifical debts. Negotiations are progressing between the Pope and the Italian Government, with a view to a definite understanding being arrived at as to the Pontiff's future 'posi-' tlon. Home is quiet*