But in the case of a lesser state or states becoming breaker of the peace, the Great Powers have never hesitated to step in and settle the difference according to their mutual agreement. We see good instance of it in the Independence of Belgium

The "concert of the Great Powers is actually a second phase of the Holy Alliance, and the new system has usually its object the protection of a smaller state against the larger. Greek Independence was a singular example of the new system. The revolt of Greece was entirely suppressed by the Sultan, and there was no hope of freeing themselves from the Turkish yoke. Though hardly justifiable, the Great Powers at last interfered, and made Greece an independent state. The Independence of Italy was another example.

Thus we see that under the new system now prevalent in Europe, a smaller state at least attains her end.

Let us examine the Polish Revolution against Russia. The Poles said, Let us revolt. We shall undoubtedly be beaten by

Russia; but we don't mind that at all, because we shall at last attain our own end through the interference of the Great Powers. There was every reason for the event turning out as they had calculated. Louis Napoleon was the first European sovereign who interfered in the Polish Revolution, and he invited England to join him.

England, however, declined, owing to the difficulties of the situation. France, from her isolation, failed in her desires, and Louis Napoleon lost his European confidence. Truly the fall of the French Empire began from that date.

This Polish Revolution disclosed another characteristic of the new European System. In the event of either country concerned being one of the Great Powers, the system is of no effect at all.

The late dispute

between England and Portugal comes under this heading.

One more interesting question needs investigation. How far this new European

System is applicable to the question of be placed

Turkey, a country which may be

among the first-class Powers, and where

Christian

inhabitants are in an inferior! position to the Turkish Mahomedans. This is what I have to discuss in the following five chapters.

IV.

GREEK INDEPENDENCE.

The Holy Alliance-The Greek insurrection--Interference of the Three Powers-Battle of Navarino-Treaty of Adrianople-The policy of Nicholas I.; Treaty of Unkiar Ikelessi-Turkey only saved by English and French aid-Palmerston succeeds to Canning's policy.

ALEXANDER I., Emperor of Russia; Francis, Emperor of Austria; and William I., King of Prussia, formed what was known as the Holy Alliance, the first-named being the chief instigator.

Its aim was to promote peace and goodwill among European nations, based upon Christianity, although it seemed quite liable. to be abused for the benefit of absolute monarchy, as in the case of Spain. Nearly all the European Powers joined it, England I

I The Prince Regent declared his personal adherence to its principles.