not stand aside, and see this going on
practically within sight of our eyes, with our arms folded,
looking on dispassionately, doing nothing.

"Let us assume that out of the situation come consequences
unforeseen, which make it necessary at a sudden moment that, in
defense of vital British interests, we should go to war; and let
us assume--which is quite possible--that Italy, who is now
neutral, should depart from her attitude, what then will be the
position in the Mediterranean where our trade routes are vital to
our interests? We have not kept a fleet in the Mediterranean
which is equal to dealing alone with a combination of other
fleets in the Mediterranean. We would have exposed this country
from our negative attitude at the present moment to the most
appalling risk. We feel strongly that France was entitled to
know--and to know at once--whether or not in the event of attack
upon her unprotected northern and western coasts she could depend
upon British support. In these compelling circumstances,
yesterday afternoon I gave to the French Ambassador the assurance
that if the German fleet undertakes hostile operations against
the French coast or shipping the British fleet will give all the
protection in its power, subject to the ratification of
Parliament.

"I understand that the German Government would be prepared, if we
would pledge ourselves to neutrality, to agree that its fleet
would not attack the northern coast of France. It is far too
narrow an engagement for us. And, Sir, there is the more serious
consideration--becoming more serious every hour--of the
neutrality of Belgium."

Here the secretary discussed the treaties of 1839 and of 1870
between the powers and Belgium respecting preservation of her
neutrality, and cited in particular the real and written recognition
by Prince Bismarck of the sacredness of this neutrality, and the
speech in Parliament by William E. Gladstone on Great Britain's
obligation to maintain it.

He then reported the promise he had just secured from France to
respect Belgian neutrality, the evasive answer that had been given
by Germany in regard to the same, and Belgium's promise to maintain
her neutrality.

He then recited Germany's ultimatum to Belgium, and Belgium's appeal
to King George.

"Diplomatic intervention took place last week on