rd Grey. Through the mobilization of
Russia all our efforts have been greatly handicapped, if they
have not become impossible. In spite of pacifying assurances
Russia is taking such far-reaching measures against us that the
situation is becoming continually menacing."

The Chancellor telegraphed to Ambassador Pourtales at St.
Petersburg:

"In spite of negotiations still pending, and although we have up
to this hour made no preparations for mobilization, Russia has
mobilized her _entire_ army and navy, hence also against us. On
account of these Russian measures we have been forced, for the
safety of the country, to proclaim the threatening state of war,
which does not yet imply mobilization. Mobilization, however, is
bound to follow if Russia does not stop every measure of war
against us and against Austria-Hungary within twelve hours, and
notifies us definitely to this effect. Please to communicate this
at once to M. Sazonof and wire hour of communication."

The German White Book states that Count Pourtales delivered the note
at midnight of this day (July 31).

"The reply of the Russian Government has _never_ reached us.

"_Two hours after the expiration of the time limit_ the czar
telegraphed the kaiser as follows:

"I have received your telegram. I comprehend that you are forced
to mobilize, but I should like to have from you the same guaranty
which I have given to you, viz., that these measures do not mean
war, and that we shall continue to negotiate for the welfare of
our two countries and the universal peace which is so dear to our
hearts. With the aid of God it must be possible to our
long-tried friendship to prevent the shedding of blood. I expect
with full confidence your urgent reply."

The Chancellor telegraphed to Ambassador Schoen at Paris:

"Russia has ordered mobilization of her entire army and fleet,
therefore also against us in spite of our still pending
mediation. We have, therefore, declared the threatening state of
war which is bound to be followed by mobilization unless Russia
stops within twelve hours all measures of war against us and
Austria. Mobilization inevitably implies war. Please ask French
Government whether it intends to remain neutral in a Russo-German
war. Reply must be made in eighteen hours. Wire at once hour of