THE EASTERN QUESTION.

Otago Witness, Issue 2293, 10 February 1898, Page 13

THE EASTERN QUESTION.

London, January 31. The Standard states that it is believed at Constantinople that the Sultan will never retire either from Crete or the Thessalian territory in Greece without fighting, February 4. It is reported from Constantinople that Russia, Britain, and France have resolved upon the appointment of Prince George of Greece as Governor of Crete, if necessary without the Sultan's consent, or against the opposition of the other Powers. Constantinople, February 3. The Bulgarian Government have sent a strong protest to the Porte demanding that the oppreasion on the Mac«doaian frontier population be terminated. A request is also made for the dismissal o£ Turkish officials guilty of recent outrages at Qfckub, whera 33 persons were tortured. London. February 3. Tbe Standard ssys it is clear that Prince Ferdinand sees an opportunity for supporting Russia. St. Peterssttbg, January 81. Russia has overcome Germany's opposition to the appointment of Prince George of Greece to the governorship of Crete. Count Muravkff, the Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs, threatens at any cost to force the Sultan to accept the appointment of Prince Gsorge. February 3. The Czar haa informed the Sultan that Russia will withdraw from any further initiative part in the affaire of Constantinople if Turkey persists in her opposition to the appointment of Prince George of Greece as Governor of Crete. Athens, February 1. A body of TurkLsh troops, forming part cf the army of ocoupation in G«ec«, captured two villages near Karditza, Tho*saly, after considerable fighting. The ■ villagers took refuge in the mountains. February 5. Russia has approved of tho scheme submitted by the International Commission for tho settlem«at of the old Greek debt-. England and France are delaying- their approval.