The war between Italy and Abyssinia has ended for the
moment in a singular kind of truce. The King brought up a powerful army of 90,000 men to attack the Italian positions outside Massowah, but perceiving them to be too strong, asked for terms of peace. The Italian Government being consulted, is said to have replied that it only wanted peaceful enjoyment of the places now in its hands ; but it is probable that on this point the whole truth has not been told. At all events, King John finally de- cided not to treat, and withdrawing his whole force, retired to the mountains once more. The Italians seem puzzled, and certainly the situation is a perplexing one for them. If they send home the bulk of their troops, the Negus may again advance to the attack ; while if they do not, they gain nothing, as they cannot advance into the hill- country. It is probable that under these circumstances Signor Crispi will yield to the national feeling, which desires to see all trained troops at home, lest war should break out in Europe and Italy be attacked.
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