nding the
scope of written or oral agreements. The question at stake is
nothing less than the future balance of power in the Balkans.
The map of the Balkans has been transformed beyond recognition,
and Turkey has practically ceased to exist as a European power;
but those who expected it to inaugurate an era of tranquillity
have been disappointed. The failure of the war as an instrument
of pacification is largely due to the very magnitude of its
military success. Had the victories of the Allies been less
decisive, conditions might have arisen more favourable to the
cause of Balkan union. The sudden collapse of Turkey left a void
which has upset the entire scheme of things existing....

[Illustration: A BAGPIPER]

The passions which the war has engendered are only partly due to
lust for territorial aggrandisement. Mere thirst after conquest
would have never produced such perversions of moral sense had it
not been backed by the sentiment of fear and jealousy. This is
clearly proved by the fact that feelings have reached their
highest point of intensity where this latter element loomed
largest. The Bulgarians have exhibited a degree of self-control
which is in marked contrast with the conduct of other Allies.
This equanimity is the more surprising in view of the fact that
the position of Bulgaria is well-nigh desperate. For months
past, the brunt of the war has fallen almost entirely on her. On
every side she is surrounded by an atmosphere of open hostility.
By threats of invasion, Roumania has wrung from her a ransom for
the Balkan victories, while in Macedonia her allies are
preparing to dispute her lawful share and have massed against
her their whole armies. So long as peace with Turkey is not
signed she must remain immobilised in front of Chatalja and
Bulair. For a parallel case one must go back to the dark hours
of Prussia during the Seven Years' War. But in the midst of all
these difficulties Bulgaria has kept a cool head, whereas public
opinion in Servia and Greece has parted company with all
reason. It is not indifference to the issues at stake which
explains this placid demeanour. When the proper time arrives,
the Bulgarians will be found tough bargainers and determined to
claim their full due. They know, however, that the position of
their country as prime factor in