estruction of Austria-Hungary. In Russia the army,
already of an immense size, was increased secretly but comprehensively
and as quick as possible; in Servia the same was done, and the Russian
Ambassador in Belgrade, Mr. von Hartwig, was, after the second Balkan
war, the principal promoter of the plan to form against Austria a new
Balkan alliance. In Bosnia, during all this time, the Servian propaganda
was at work with high treason, and in the end with revolver and the
bomb.

In Vienna and in Berlin the greatness and the purpose of the new danger
could not remain doubtful, especially as it was openly said in St.
Petersburg, in Belgrade, and elsewhere that the destruction of
Austria-Hungary was imminent. As soon as the Balkan troubles began
Austria-Hungary had been obliged to put a large part of her army in
readiness for war, because the Russians and Servians had mobilized on
their frontiers. The Germans felt that what was a danger for their ally
was also a danger for them and that they must do all in the power to
maintain Austria-Hungary in the position of a great power. They felt
that this could only be done by keeping perfect faith with their ally
and by great military strength, so that Russia might possibly be
deterred from war and peace be preserved, or else that, in case war was
forced upon them, they could wage it with honor and success. Now it was
clear in Berlin that in view of the Russian and Servian preparations,
Austria-Hungary, in case of a war, would be obliged to use a great part
of her forces against Servia and therefore would have to send against
Russia fewer troops than would have been possible under the conditions
formerly prevailing in Europe. Formerly even European Turkey could have
been counted upon for assistance, that after her recent defeat seemed
very doubtful. These reasons and considerations, which were solely of a
defensive nature, led to the great German military bills of the last two
years. Also Austria-Hungary was obliged to increase its defensive
strength.

Whoever considers carefully the course of events that has been briefly
sketched here will pronounce the assertion of our enemies, that Germany
wanted the war, ridiculous and absurd. On the contrary, it can be said
that Germany never before endeavored more eagerly to preserve peace than
during the last few years. Germany had plenty of opportunities to attack
and good opportunities to boot, for we knew for years that the army of
France