NEWS OF THE WEEK.
THE Anglo-Russian Convention was ratified on Monday, and was published in the papers . of Wednesday. It begins by expressing the sincere desire of King Edward and the Emperor Nicholas to settle the various questions affecting the interests of their States on the Asiatic Continent and declaring their resolve to remove all cause of misunder- standing. The Convention is set forth under three heads (1) Persia; (2) Afghanistan ; (3) Tibet. Both Governments undertake to • respect the integrity and independence of Persia and maintain equal opportunities for commerce for all nations. But they agree to divide the country into two spheres of influence—a Russian sphere in the North and a British sphere in the South—with a neutral region between them. Britain undertakes not to seek commercial or political cencessions in the Russian sphere, or to support demands for concessions made there by any third Power. She also promises not to oppose, directly or indirectly, requests for con- cessions supported by the Russian Government. • Russia promises the same in respect to the British sphere. In the event of irregularities in the redemption or payment of interest on the Persian loans contracted with the British or Russian banks, either Britain or Russia may assume control of tie revenue in her own sphere of influence.
