mber of the Permanent Tribunal of Arbitration at The Hague,
was present. In the course of a discussion of the war in Europe and the
prospects of peace Count von Bernstorff, it is understood, said that,
while he had no advices from the Imperial Government since he had left
Berlin, he recalled that the Imperial Chancellor had told him that he
believed Emperor William would be willing to discuss a proposal of peace
through mediation.

With the permission of Count von Bernstorff, Mr. Straus came to
Washington and told Secretary Bryan of what the German Ambassador had
said. On the following day Count von Bernstorff made a trip from New
York to Washington and had an interview with Secretary Bryan.

It has been understood that Mr. Bryan, in an excess of caution, desired
to ask Count von Bernstorff personally if he would consent to having
Ambassador Gerard instructed to make inquiry of the German
Government as to whether the conversation between the Emperor and the
Imperial Chancellor might be regarded as indicating that an offer of
mediation of the United States would not be unwelcome to Germany. Count
von Bernstorff is understood to have assented to Mr. Bryan's suggestion,
and the instructions to Mr. Gerard followed.

* * * * *

WHO BEGAN THE WAR, AND WHY?

CASE FOR THE TRIPLE ENTENTE

* * * * *

FIRST WARNINGS OF EUROPE'S PERIL.

Speeches by British Ministers.

Sir John Simon, British Attorney General, in Speech Before
Altrincham Liberals, at Manchester, July 25.

We have been so filled with our own political development that some of
us may not have noticed how serious a situation is threatening on the
Continent of Europe. All I will say about it this afternoon is this--if
times of anxiety are coming into relationships between different
European powers, we in this country, and I think not only Liberals among
us, have reason to be glad that our foreign administration is in the
calm, cool hands of Sir Edward Grey.[06] [Cheers.] And let us all
resolve that, whatever may be the difficulties and dangers which
threaten the peaceful relations in Europe, the part which this country
plays shall from beginning to end be the part of a mediator simply
desirous of promoting better and more peaceful relations.

* * * * *

[06] On the next day, July 26, Earl Grey addressed to The
London Times the follo