Ministry for Defense.

That was the question! It was demanded of all the larger parties that
they put up their best--that is, their intellectually strongest--men for
a Cabinet whose sole task was the defense of France. When this task is
accomplished, when the war is ended in one way or the other, then the
Ministry will undoubtedly dissolve, and the Ministerial magnificance of
Comrades Guesde and Sembat will be at an end until the opportunity
offers of creating a Socialist Ministry.

France, according to all news emanating from the scene of hostilities,
is in an extraordinarily difficult situation. Should the German Army
succeed, as seems already to have been the case in two places, in
breaking through the French-Belgian-English chain of defense, then the
way to Paris is as good as open. If nothing more, at least the reported
preparations of the Parisians indicate that a siege is expected there in
the very near future; and since Paris is still the heart of France, the
taking of that city would be one with the fall of the French Republic.

If in such an hour of danger a nation calls upon its sons, there is for
them no choice; they must answer the call.

Jules Guesde and Marcel Sembat did no more than their duty!

* * * * *

"REVOLUTION!"

Cry Raised by Jean Jaures at Session of International Socialist Bureau,
Brussels, July 29.

The diplomats negotiate. It seems that they will be satisfied to take
from Servia a little of its blood. We have, therefore, a little rest to
insure peace. But to what lesson is Europe submitted? When after twenty
centuries of Christianity, when after 100 years of the triumph of the
principles of the rights of men, how is it possible that millions of
persons, without knowing why, can kill each other?

And Germany? If she knew of the Austrian note, it is inexcusable to have
permitted such a step. And if she did not know of this Austrian note,
what is her Governmental wisdom? You have an agreement which drags you
into war and you do not know what you have been dragged for? I ask, What
people have shown so much anarchy?

Nevertheless the authorities hesitate. Let us profit by it and organize.
For us, French Socialists, our duty is simple. We do not need to impose
on our Government a policy of peace. They are practicing it. I, who have
never hesitated to bring upon my head the hatred of our patriots by my
desire to bring about a Franco-German understa