NEWS OF THE WEEK.
THE German Emperor opened the Session of the Reichstag on Tuesday in a self-restrained speech of much dignity. He trusted that Germany would not be disturbed ; but the de- velopment in the defensive power of other European States made it "an imperative duty" to look to German defences, and by "thoroughly enforcing the approved principle of uni- versal liability to service," to "secure a continuance of the respect in which Germany has hitherto been held by the other Powers." He trusted that the necessity of the measure would "meet with fuller and fuller recognition," and that the sacri- fices required, the extent of which the Federal Governments fully appreciated, would be borne with patriotism. The dura- tion of service would be confined within the narrowest bounds compatible with efficiency ; new revenues would be found in taxes on spirits and beer ; and he doubted not "that the nation's firm determination to preserve its ancestral inheritance, to maintain peace, and to secure to our beloved country its dearest treasures," would lead to an agreement. The speech was heard in profound silence, and though there was applause at its conclusion, it is clear the opposition has been by no means weakened. That opposition, however, is still directed to the new taxes, though it is said to be accen- tuated by Prince Bismarck's declaration that the increase of the Army is wholly unnecessary. The Government is apparently resolved to devote the whole Session to the Bill, and no other measure will be brought forward.
