s these, they took an initiative which was
not justified and of a kind which would irremediably compromise
peace.

"Baron von Schoen did not allude to his immediate departure and
did not make any fresh request for an answer to his question
concerning the attitude of France in case of an Austro-Russian
conflict. He confined himself to saying of his own accord that
the attitude of France was not doubtful.

"It would not do to exaggerate the possibilities which may result
from my conversation with the German Ambassador for, on their
side, the Imperial Government continue the most dangerous
preparations on our frontier. However, we must not neglect the
possibilities, and we should not cease to work toward an
agreement. On her side France is taking all military measures
required for protection against too great an advance in German
military preparations. She considers that her attempts at
solution will only have a chance of success so far as it is felt
that she will be ready and resolute if the conflict is forced on
her."

Ambassador Paul Cambon reported from London the situation between
Great Britain and Germany, especially in regard to British
neutrality and Germany's attitude toward Belgian neutrality.

"Sir Edward Grey will ask the Cabinet to authorize him to state
on Monday in the House of Commons that the British Government
will not permit a violation of Belgian neutrality.

"In the second place, the British fleet is mobilized, and Sir
Edward Grey will propose to his colleagues that he should state
that it will oppose the passage of the Straits of Dover by the
German fleet, or, if the German fleet should pass through, will
oppose any demonstration on the French coasts. These two
questions will be dealt with at the meeting on Monday. I drew the
attention of the Secretary of State to the point that, if during
this intervening period any incident took place, it was necessary
not to allow a surprise, and that it would be desirable to think
of intervening in time."

Minister Mollard presented the request from Dr. Eyschen, Minister of
State of Luxemburg, for an assurance that France would respect the
neutrality of the Grand Duchy. A similar request has been made to
Germany.

M. Viviani returned the same assurance that he had given in the case
of Belgium.

_Belg