The King of Italy's reply was a model Royal speech,
and showed the trite Italian dignity and taste, and at the same time Savoyard sound sense. It was perfectly cordial without saying too much, or in any way "slopping over." The Triple Alliance was described as "this old Alliance between Italy and the two Imperial Powers, which public opinion now recognises as the emblem of peace, and its most effective safeguard." Taken in connection with the visit to the Czar and the good understanding arrived at with France, the King of Italy's visit to Berlin and his adhesion to the Triple Alliance in its new form may indeed be quite truthfully described as a guarantee of peace. During the last six months Italy's posi- tion in Europe has been visibly augmented. Diplomatically it is now a very strong one. She may be in the Triple Alliance, but her relations with both the Powers of the Dual Alliance are most cordial and friendly, and if she is allied with Germany, it is certainly not against either Russia or France. At the same time, Italy's relations with England, in spitel of the Continental quidnuncs, are most friendly. Not only should we be glad to see her in Tripoli when occasion offers and when her financial position would make such a departure prudent, but we view her good understanding with France without the slightest jealousy. Italy, in truth, holds the key of the diplomatic position. It is the wish of all Englishmen that she should prosper both internally and ex- ternally.
