following the Serbian controversy, to which
Russia could not remain indifferent.

Count Szapary telegraphed to Count Berchtold that, after a council
of ministers which had lasted five hours, M. Sazonof had received
the German Ambassador, Count Pourtales.

M. Sazonof took the position that the Serbian question was a
European affair, the settlement of 1909 having been made under the
auspices of all the powers. He pointed out

"that Austria-Hungary had offered a _dossier_ for investigation
when an ultimatum had already been presented. Russia would
require an international investigation of the _dossier_, which
had been put at her disposal. My German colleague at once brought
to M. Sazonof's notice that Austria-Hungary would not accept
interference in her difference with Serbia, and that Germany also
on her side could not accept a suggestion which would be contrary
to the dignity of her ally as a great power.

"In the further course of the conversation the minister explained
that that which Russia could not accept with indifference was the
eventual intention of Austria-Hungary 'to devour Serbia.' Count
Pourtales answered that he did not accept any such intention on
the part of Austria-Hungary, as this would be contrary to the
most special interest of the monarchy. The only object of
Austria-Hungary was 'to inflict on Serbia justly deserved
chastisement.' M. Sazonof on this expressed his doubts whether
Austria-Hungary would allow herself to be contented with this
even if explanations on this point had been made.

"The interview concluded with an appeal by M. Sazonof that
Germany should work with Russia for the maintenance of peace. The
German Ambassador assured the Russian Minister that Germany
certainly had no wish to bring about a war, but that she
naturally fully represented the interests of her ally."

Count Pourtales telegraphed his Chancellor, Dr. von Bethmann-Hollweg
that M. Sazonof was very much agitated.

Count Berchtold telegraphed to Count Mensdorff, Austro-Hungarian
Ambassador at London, to explain to Sir Edward Grey, British
Secretary for Foreign Affairs, that the action taken toward Serbia
was not a formal ultimatum but "merely a _demarche_ with a time
limit," which, if not acceded to, would be followed only by
Austria's breaking off diplomatic relations and beginning military
preparations