Snubbed! 58 An exchange of visits, the first for the last 200 years, had taken place between the German and Spanish Courts. This aroused jealousy in France, where the Spanish King had recently been rudely received. “Mirage” 59 At this time General Gordon at Khartoum was isolated. His appeal for assistance and the opening of communications with Khartoum by the Suakin-Berber route, was still delayed. “Mrs. Micawber” 60 This Cartoon refers to Mr. Gladstone’s vacillating Egyptian policy, and pictures him as “Micawber waiting for something to turn up.” The Liberal Party, however, like Mrs. Micawber, remained loyal to the Premier. “Wait till the Clouds roll by” 61 Mr. Gladstone, burdened with political complications at home and abroad, ill-health and impaired voice, was resting and recruiting at Hawarden. The advice here tendered to him was the title of a popular song. “Too Late!” 62 When Sir Charles Wilson at last succeeded in approaching Khartoum, the Mahdi’s flag was flying upon what had been Gordon’s citadel. Khartoum had fallen, and its dauntless defender with it. “Only his Play” (!!!) 63 The Russians had attacked the Afghans at Penjdeh, and each side charged the other with provoking the conflict. The Broken Covenant 64 On April 27 Mr. Gladstone made use of the above significant words with reference to an arrangement or covenant with Russia concerning Afghanistan, which Russia appeared to have broken. Our Protean Premier! 65 On May 4 Mr. Gladstone removed all immediate fear of war, by announcing that Russia and England would resume negotiations for the delimitation of the Afghan frontier. The “Irrepressible” Tourist 66 The occupation by Germany of the Caroline Islands had excited Spanish feeling. England, too, regarded with apprehension the active “Colonial Policy” of Bismarck at this time. The Waits 67 At the end of the year, Lord Salisbury determined to remain in office, though left by the General Election in a minority. The Grand Young Man!! 68 Lord Randolph Churchill had been appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer and Leader of the House of Commons in the new Salisbury Ministry.