the Queen, and asked her to form a fresh Cabinet. He says he is no
longer able to control the affairs of state.

This is the worst thing that could have happened at this moment. The
only man who seems fit to lead the Government is Señor Sagasta, but, as
we have told you before, he has very liberal views about Cuba.

[Illustration: QUEEN CHRISTINA OF SPAIN]

If he comes into office there is little doubt but that he will recall
General Weyler, and offer home rule to the island, if he does not accept
our offer of arranging terms whereby Cuba can purchase the island for
herself.

While this policy is very pleasing to the friends of Cuba, the majority
of the Spaniards are unwilling to give up the island unless it is taken
from them by force.

Don Carlos knows this, and so has declared himself in favor of keeping
General Weyler where he is, and pressing the war still more severely
till the rebels are forced to give in.

The chances are that if Señor Sagasta comes to power there will be a
Carlist rising, and the young King Alphonse will lose his throne.

On the other hand, there seems to be no leader, strong enough to guide
the country, who believes in carrying out Canovas' policy, and as far as
the poor harassed Queen can see, the speedy subduing of Cuba is the only
policy that will please the people and keep her boy on the throne.