able of putting not only the tranquillity of
the empire in jeopardy, but of changing the whole course of its foreign
policy. This event however, was not felt beyond the limits of Russia;
the grand duke Nicolas succeeded to the throne, and professed a
determination to pursue that course of policy which had been adopted by
his predecessor. France was this year occupied in the coronation of its
monarch, whom the people was soon again to repudiate. Sweden, Denmark,
and Germany remained without much alteration of circumstances; but Spain
was not only in the possession of foreign troops, but was distracted
by the miseries of factions, revolts, and changes of administration. In
Portugal, the king was induced, chiefly through British influence, to
recognise the independence of Brazil, the sovereignty of which was ceded
to his eldest son, Don Pedro. The interior state of Brazil, however, was
much disturbed by the tyrannical, conduct of its new emperor, and war
was also commenced between Brazil and Buenos Ayres. In Italy and Austria
all were tranquil; but the relations between Turkey and Russia still
continued to be in a very critical state, though no hostilities were
commenced on either side. Greece was torn by internal dissensions,
and assailed by barbarian foes, who reduced Navarino, and invested
Missolonghi. In the United States, Mr. John Quincy Adams was chosen
president; and in South America the various republics were proceeding to
consolidate their power, though Chili was much disturbed, and Paraguay
had fallen under the tyranny of D Francia. The independence of the
united provinces of Rio de la Plata was formally recognised by Great
Britain, and a treaty of commerce and friendship was concluded between
the two powers. A treaty of amity and commerce was also concluded with
the congress of Columbia, and with the new sovereign of Brazil.

CHAPTER XXXVI.

{GEORGE IV. 1826--1827}

Meeting of Parliament..... Measures proposed for relieving
commercial Distress..... Bill to enable private Banks to
have an unlimited Number of Partners, &c..... Appointment of
a Committee on Emigration..... Modification of the Corn-
Laws..... Debates on Free trade..... Financial
Statements..... Bill to prevent Bribery at Elections.....
Parliamentary Reform..... Alteration of the criminal
Code..... Case of Mr. Kenriek..... State of the Colonies.....
Motion for amending the Representation of Edin