tand to arms in case Russian interests in the
Balkans should be in danger. An explanatory note would make it
clear that this was a measure of precaution, since we, who in any
case have the advantage of quicker mobilization, have now also
already so great a start. In earnest words I drew M. Sazonof's
attention to the impression which such a measure would make in
our country. I went on to express doubt whether the explanatory
note would be calculated to soften the impression, whereupon the
minister again gave expression to assurances regarding the
harmlessness (!) of this measure."

Count Berchtold telegraphed to Count Szogyeny at Berlin that the
Russian military districts of Kiev, Odessa, Moscow, and Kazan were
being mobilized. The ambassador should notify the German Government
of this, and emphasize that if Russian mobilization were not stopped
without delay, Austria-Hungary would follow with general
mobilization. The representatives of Germany and Austria-Hungary at
St. Petersburg, and, if necessary, at Paris, will declare the same
to the Government there. We will not be diverted from our course
against Serbia.

_Germany._ Chancellor von Bethmann-Hollweg telegraphed to Ambassador
von Schoen at Paris to protest against the military measures France
was reported to be taking, and say that, in answer, Germany would
have to proclaim "a threatening state of war."

"While this would not mean a call for the reserves or
mobilization, yet the tension would be aggravated. We continue to
hope for the preservation of peace."

Count Pourtales, Ambassador at St. Petersburg, had an interview with
M. Sazonof, Minister for Foreign Affairs, which he reported as
follows:

"The secretary tried to persuade me that I should urge my
Government to participate in a quadruple conference to find means
to induce Austria-Hungary to give up those demands which touch
upon the sovereignty of Serbia. I could merely promise to report
the conversation and took the position that, after Russia had
decided upon the baneful step of mobilization, every exchange of
ideas appeared now extremely difficult, if not impossible.
Besides, Russia now was demanding from us in regard to
Austria-Hungary the same which Austria-Hungary was being blamed
for with regard to Serbia, _i.e._, an infraction of sovereignty.
Austria-Hungary having promised to co