5 NOVEMBER 1870, Page 2

The people of Victoria (Australia) have heard of the war,

and, are bestirring themselves. They think England may be drawn in,. and are about to fortify Port Philip, organize an artillery, and change the volunteer riflemen into a militia. In return, the Australians hope that we shall keep the sea clear for their trade,. as they cannot defend that. All this is spirited enough, and should be warmly acknowledged here, even though we are not at present likely to be drawn into any maritime contest. We are an extremely peaceful people, but it is astonishing how a chance of a fight wakes up our intellects and opens our purses. No advice from Government would have fortified Port Philip half as quickly as the chance of war will.