As usual at a great crisis, all kinds of rumours
are circulated to prove that nothing can happen. The latest is a statement that Prince Nikita of Montenegro is ready to abandon the cause, if the Porte will recognise his independence and give him some territory and a port. This rumour comes from so many quarters that we think it possible the offer has been made and considered, but we do not think it possible that it should be accepted. There is no reason for suspecting the Prince of treachery, and nearly a certainty that if he held aloof after Qprvia was in the field, his subjects would dethrone him. We imaginettitaAe distrusts Prince Milano, and until a shot has been fired by Servia, is amusrus the Turkish Government with negotiations. He is hampered, too, by some difficulties about pro- visions, caused by the number of refugees in Montenegro, which exceeds that of the male population. His defection would be a most serious blow to the cause of the Christians, but would ex- cite most surprise among those who have studied him most care- fully.
