probable that the Austro-Hungarian Government would
have taken an initiative which would lead, according to a
preconceived plan, to a declaration of war, without previous
arrangement with the Emperor William.

"The German Government stand 'with rounded arms' ready to take
peaceful or warlike action as circumstances may require; a sudden
intervention against us would not surprise anybody here.

"The Belgian Government are taking steps which harmonize with the
statement made to me yesterday by M. Davignon that everything
will be put in readiness for the defence of the neutrality of the
country."

Ambassador Dumaine reported from Vienna:

"The French Consul at Prague confirms the mobilization of the
Eighth Army corps, and that of the Landwehr division of this army
corps. The cavalry divisions in Galicia are also mobilizing;
regiments and cavalry divisions from Vienna and Budapest have
already been transported to the Russian frontier. Reservists are
now being called together in this district.

"There is a rumor that the Austro-Hungarian Government, in order
to be in a position to meet any danger, and perhaps in order to
impress St. Petersburg, intend to decide on a general
mobilization of their forces on July 30, or August 1. The
Austrian Emperor will return from Ischl to Vienna to-morrow."

Ambassador Paleologue reported from Berlin that Austria-Hungary
refused direct conversation offered by Russia.

"Austria is hurrying on her military preparations against Russia,
and is pressing forward the mobilization which has begun on the
Galician frontier. As a result the order to mobilize will be
dispatched to-night to thirteen army corps, which are destined
to operate eventually against Austria."

Ambassador Jules Cambon reported from Berlin his interview with the
German Secretary of State. Von Jagow was awaiting reply from Vienna
to his request to hold direct conversation with Russia. He
considered that the Serbian reply afforded a basis for negotiation.

"I said that it was just on that account that I considered the
rupture by Austria, after she had received such a document,
inexplicable.

"The Secretary of State then remarked that with eastern nations
one could never obtain sufficient guaranties, and that Austria
wished to be able to supervise the carrying ou