NEWS OF THE WEEK.
PUBLIC opinion in Italy has been deeply moved by the presumed murder of Signor Matteotti, the Socialist leader. Signor Mussolini's Government has been greatly shaken, and, though the country is now quieter, the Government has by no means recovered from the injury to its prestige. The general horror and indignation are extreme. The Government must necessarily suffer for all deeds done in the name of Fascism. Signor Matteotti, who could not, one would think, be fairly considered a dangerous Socialist—he recently visited London, by the way, and addressed members of the Labour Party— was kidnapped on Tuesday, June 10th. His body has not yet been recovered. The immediate result of his disappearance was widespread demonstrations against Fascism, and the spread of rumours that the Government would be reconstructed. It is still suggested that some of the Elder Statesmen might be brought in to conciliate public feeling, or that a Crown Council should be created.
