Empress Catherine, assisted by Joseph II., was planning the dismemberment of Turkey. Russia declared war against that Power in 1786: Austria in 1788; while the King of Sweden, overestimating the resources of the Turks, declared war against Russia, and the Danes, at the instigation of Catherine, invaded Sweden. Mr. Elliot was at once instructed to present a remonstrance at Copenhagen, threatening Denmark with the resentment of the three Allies if it did not cease hostilities, and the Danes, knowing that the forces of Russia and Austria were more than fully employed on the side of Turkey, thought it expedient to yield. The diplomacy of the three Powers was next successful in detaching Austria from the Russian alliance by threats of hostilities in Germany, and of support to be given to the Anti-Imperialist party in the Low Countries. The Convention of Reichenbach, where Austria gave way, left Russia standing alone. A vigorous tone was at the same time taken up against Spain, whose vessels of war had interfered with an English settlement on Vancouver's Island, at a point called Nootka Sound, the property of which was claimed by both Powers.
By these acts of intervention a complete departure was effected from the pacific system which it had been the object of the peace of 1783 to inaugurate. "The King of Prussia died," said Lord Lansdowne, "and a total alteration of English politics ensued. From this era the pacific system was rejected; the ancient language was revived. France was again held out as our natural enemy; England was thought equal to dictate to the whole world. Our Ministers and messengers overspread all Europe. Every Court was to feel terror at the name of Britain; our resources were inexhaustible, and our power not to be resisted. Holland was obliged by force, not upon principle, to return to our alliance. France was dictated to; the Turks were excited to murder the Russians, while proclamations were issued at home for restraining vice and immorality; the Swedes were to complete the humiliation of this devoted Power; Den-
