NEWS OF THE WEEK.
THE meeting of the Cabinet on Monday was awaited with interest, and even anxiety, as it was supposed that some decision would be arrived at on the fiscal question, and that it might be followed by resignations. A decision was, as we believe, arrived at,—namely, to postpone indefinitely the question of preferential tariffs, and, therefore, of taxes on food, but to demand from the country the means of retaliating on the foreigner when his tariffs are so heavy as to keep out British goods. This means, of course, a Protective system not extended to corn or meat, and this is practically the explanation given in a pamphlet-manifesto published on Tuesday by Mr. Balfour. The publication of this document has been the signal for the announcement of three resigna- tions, the first, and infinitely most important, being that of Mr. Chamberlain. The other two Ministers who depart are Mr. Ritchie and Lord George Hamilton. The news reaches us too late for complete discussion, but we may state here our belief that Mr. Chamberlain, loyal as his intentions doubtless are, will find it hard to avoid fighting for his own hand ; that Mr. Balfour, lo:aded with his New Protection, will be unable to secure a majority in the country ; and that the result of the Election will be an attempt to form a Rosebery Govern- ment, which will not be long enduring.
