Sir John Hall, in the course of an inter view with a representative of the Pall Mall Gazette, said a defensive federation of the colonies was desirable, but fiscal federation was a dream. Australia would support Great Britain in a war on account of the colonies, but it was doubtful if the support would be given in case of a European war. He ridiculed the idea of Mr Froude that the colonies should be represented in Parliament Iby the Agents-general. He advocated an extra duty on foreign imports for defence purposes. THE TIMES AND MR PARNELL. The Times is applying to have dismissed the action brought by Mr Parnell in Dublin, pending the result of the appeal made in the action brought in Scotland. PRINCE BISMARCK AND COLONIES. Prince Bismarck at a banquet given to members of the Diet said colonies were burdensome. It was impossible, ho said, in the pursuit of trifles to embroil the great Powers.
(PER PRESS ASSOCIATION.)

MONETARY AND COMMERCIAL. London, February 21

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