Russia displays a suspicious activity in suspicious quarters. Her representative
in Switzerland has notified to the Vorort, that the Emperor will not interfere in the affairs of the Federation so long as the republic observes its constitution according to the settlement in 1815. Austria and Prussia concur in this declara- tion. The proceeding is susceptible of two constructions. Having thrown great discredit on the settlement of Europe at the peace, by their breach of the treaty of Vienna—knowing that their right to plead that settlement against the acts of other European states will hereafter be disputed—the Northern Powers, Russia espe- cially, may wish to obtain the readhesion of Switzerland to the settlement, under threat of dangerous consequences to her if it be not strictly maintained. Literally interpreted, indeed, their notice to Switzerland amounts to this—that autocracies may break treaties, free governments must not.
The other construction to which the new sally is liable is, that Russia and her accomplices have here taken the initiative step of aggression on Europe—that the fire of war has already begun to smoke and murmur in one of those volcanic spots which we re- cently pointed out. The two constructions, indeed, are not in- compatible ; and at any rate, the notification clearly paves the way for more violent proceedings in future. It must be coupled with other ominous manifestations—with the menacing attitude of the Russian army on the frontier of Polish Austria—with the efforts of Russian diplomacy to make the Porte sanction the annexation of Cracow. Turkey was no party to the treaty of Vienna and this attempt to obtain her suf- frage shows the anxiety of Russia to bolster up the broken treaty by collateral supports. Having taken advantage of the infraction, she wishes to "save the pieces" for her own use.
Russia was never busier than she is at this moment. England has no cause to fear her but if it is England's mission to promote peace and civilization in Europe, Russia must be watched, in order that her vagaries may be made opportunities for useful ends which she does not contemplate.
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