We have received, by the last mail, specimen copies of x London paper called the "European Mail," which wishes to extend its circulation to China and Japan. The paper, or rather the scheme known under that title, is an exceptionally comprehensive one, asthe "European Mail" is the title of seven distinct newspapers destined for circulation in the principal British colonies, and compiled with reference to the special wants of each, It is perhaps suggestive of the yrowing interest which people at home are taking in China affairs, that the proprietors now intend to add an eighth issue prepared specially for China, and the Straits settlements. We have as yet, only the announcement of this new. paper; but are warned to expect the first copy by the next mail. In the meantime, specimen copies of the papers issued for the Cape and for Australia have been sent us, and we have pleasure in testifying to their comprehensiveness and careful compilation. The object of the "European Mail" seems to be, to supply a thorough digest of European and American news, The Alto California draws the following pleasing picture, of the present condition of the Flowery Land "The empire is now open in every part to foreigners, and we shall soon have books about passant life at the head waters of the Hoang-ho and the Yang-tze, and on the border of Thibet, and the adventures of travellers in journeys through the remotest corners of Yunan and Kansuh. The popular prejudices are giving way as the people learn more of the convenience of European customs and the advantages of European inventions. The new treaty with Great Britain provides for the adoption of a commercial code, and authorizes the appointment of Chinese Consuls British ports. An Embassy has already been sent to neyotinte with the leading Christian Powers; the first treaty has be ratified, and a multitude of circumstances indicate that the Government is growing more liberal every year..At present the rulers at Pekin are far more liberal than the people, and would grant many more privileges to foreigners than they possess, if it were not for the fear of offending popular prejudice, and thus leading to distur-ances of the peace."
Among other items of news brought by the last mail, we notice that Holt's line of steamers is to be increased, and that they are to run through the Suez Canal. Our readers are aware that Messrs, But= ter field and Swire have lately established a branch house in Hongkong, in anticipation of this change. China affairs have been the subject of much discussion ab home. The Times supports the new con vention, and misreads the memorial of the Shanghai Chamber of Commerce as thoroughly favouring it also, and as clashing with the opinions of the London merchants, Itappears to be aupportedinits error by the expressions of some local correspondent. Mr. Matheson has written point ing out its error, and quoting expressions from the memorial, in an opposite sense. The Standard condemns the convention. The Pall Mall twaddles as usual, but, range to say, does not abuse China merchants. The Economist has a sound and sensible article, fully appreciating the tone ofthe Shanghai memorial The Saturday Review, in o rather carefully written article criticises the Burlingame-Bismark corres-Powlence, The writer sees through the igh colouring of Mr. Burlingame's essay, and reduces the right to work coal mines, and the right of navigation in inland waters," of which Mr. Burlingame speaks, to their proper level. "In speaking of these (Continued on page 252.) ited without permission.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.