are
at stake.

"German capitalists, show that you are inspired by the same spirit as
our heroes, who shed their hearts' blood in the fight. Germans who have
saved money, show that you have saved, not only for yourselves, but also
for the Fatherland. German corporations, companies, savings banks, and
all institutions which have blossomed and grown up under the powerful
protection of the Empire, repay the Empire with your gratitude in this
hour of fate. German banks and bankers, show what your brilliant
organization and your influence on your customers are able to produce."

_Times History of the War._

[Illustration]

_LIBERTE! LIBERTE CHERIE!_

Soldiers,--Upon the memorable fields of Montmirail, of Vauchamps, of
Champaubert, which a century ago witnessed the victories of our
ancestors over Bluecher's Prussians, your vigorous offensive has
triumphed over the resistance of the Germans. Held on his flanks, his
centre broken, the enemy is now retreating towards east and north by
forced marches. The most renowned army corps of Old Prussia, the
contingents of Westphalia, of Hanover, of Brandenburg, have retired
in haste before you.

This first success is no more than a prelude. The enemy is shaken, but
not yet decisively beaten.

You have still to undergo severe hardships, to make long marches, to
fight hard battles.

May the image of your country, soiled by barbarians, always remain
before your eyes. Never was it more necessary to sacrifice all for her.

Saluting the heroes who have fallen in the fighting of the last few
days, my thoughts turn towards you--the victors in the next battle.

Forward, soldiers, for France.

FRANCHET D'ESPEREY,
_General Commanding the Vth Army._
_Montmirail, September 9, 1914._

[Illustration]

_THE JUNKER_

"_What I have most admired in you, Bethmann, is that you have made
Socialists our best supporters_"

England is playing a perfectly shameful role in this war. Even though
France were allied to Russia by an unfortunate treaty, England was not
so allied! But England, who has ever been jealous of the industrial
development of our country, used the violation of our treaty of
neutrality with Belgium, which was incurred only in dire need and which
was yielded openly and honestly in the Reichstag by the Chancellor, as a
pretext to declare war against us.

PHILIPP SCHEIDEMANN,
_Socialist ex-Vice-President