phatic order a patrol of the Fourteenth Army Corps, led by an
officer, crossed the border on Aug. 2. They apparently were killed.
Only one man returned. However, long before the crossing of the
border French flyers were dropping bombs in Southern Germany, and
at Schluchtpass the French troops had attacked our border troops.

Until the present our troops have confined their activity to the
protection of our borders. They are now on the defense, and
necessity recognizes no law. ["Very true!"]

Our troops have occupied Luxemburg, and perhaps have also found it
necessary to enter Belgian territory. [Hearty applause.] This is
contrary to international law. The French Government has declared
in Brussels they will respect the neutrality of Belgium as long as
she respects the opponent. We knew, however, that France was ready
to invade Belgium. ["Hear, hear!"] France could wait; we, however,
could not, because a French invasion in our lower Rhein flank
would have proved fatal.

So we were forced to disregard the protests of the Luxemburg and
Belgian Governments. We shall try to make good the injustice we
have committed as soon as our military goal has been reached.
[Applause.] Who like we are fighting for the highest, must only
consider how victory can be gained. [Enthusiastic applause in
entire house.]

Gentlemen, we are standing shoulder to shoulder with
Austria-Hungary. With reference to England, the declaration which
Sir Edward Grey made in the House of Commons yesterday plainly
shows our attitude. We have assured England that as long as she
remains neutral our fleet will not attack the northern coast of
France and that the territorial integrity and independence of
Belgium will not be violated. This declaration I repeat before the
whole world, and I can add that so long as England remains neutral
we are prepared in case of reciprocity to refrain from all hostile
operations against French merchant vessels. [Applause.]

Gentlemen, so much for the events. I repeat the words of the
Kaiser: "With a clear conscience Germany goes to the battlefield."
[Enthusiastic approval.] We are fighting for the fruits of our
peaceful industry, for the inheritance of a great past, and for our
future.

The fifty years of which Moltke spoke, and in which we sh