It seems to be understood in Germany that the Agrarians
have triumphed over the Emperor, and that the new tariff will, as regards articles of food, be based on Protectionist ideas. According to the Beobachter of Stuttgart, which is known to be well informed, the tax on imported corn will be decidedly raised, while that on cattle, pigs, poultry, eggs, and all animal products will be made almost prohibitory. This will not only irritate America, but excite great indignation in Austria, which finds in Germany her best foreign market, and will strengthen the hands of those who doubt the value of the Triple Alliance to the Dual Monarchy. Moreover, the expected rise in the price of food is most unpopular with all townsmen and many peasants, and is already swelling the numbers of the Social Democrats, who in one place in East Prussia have increased their vote from three thousand to five thousand, the special issue being the Agrarian question. It is quite possible that this submission to the Agrarian demands may break the power of the Government in the Reichstag, and thus throw back all the Emperor's plans, which require money for their development.
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