in St.
Petersburg the object and scope of the Austrian action in Serbia
in a manner both convincing and satisfactory to Russia. The
declaration of war which has meanwhile ensued alters nothing in
this matter."

Count Berchtold, Minister for Foreign Affairs in Vienna, telegraphed
to the German Chancellor that the British mediation proposal, "owing
to the opening of hostilities by Serbia," was "belated." William II
at 10. 45 p. m., sent the following message to Nicholas II:

"I have heard with the greatest anxiety of the impression which
is caused by the action of Austria-Hungary against Serbia. The
unscrupulous agitation which has been going on for years in
Serbia has led to the revolting crime of which Archduke Franz
Ferdinand has become a victim. The spirit which made the Serbians
murder their own king and his consort still dominates that
country. Doubtless you will agree with me that both of us, you as
well as I, and all other sovereigns, have a common interest to
insist that all those who are responsible for this horrible
murder shall suffer their deserved punishment.

"On the other hand, I by no means overlook the difficulty
encountered by you and your Government to stem the tide of public
opinion. In view of the cordial friendship which has joined us
both for a long time with firm ties, I shall use my entire
influence to induce Austria-Hungary to obtain a frank and
satisfactory understanding with Russia. I hope confidently that
you will support me in my efforts to overcome all difficulties
which may yet arise.

"Your most sincere and devoted friend and cousin."

_Great Britain._ Sir Maurice de Bunsen, Ambassador at Vienna, sent
to Sir Edward Grey, Secretary for Foreign Affairs at London, the
text of the Austro-Hungarian declaration of war against Serbia. This
was followed by the statements:

"Austria-Hungary, who has just addressed to Serbia a formal
declaration, in conformity with Article I of the convention of
October 18, 1907, relative to the opening of hostilities,
considers herself henceforward in a state of war with Serbia.

"In bringing the above to notice of his Britannic Majesty's
embassy, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs has the honor to
declare that Austria-Hungary will act during the hostilities in
conformity with the terms of the conventions