The Paris correspondent of the Times states, in what he
intends to be a very serious way, that if the Triple Alliance is renewed next year—which it will be—it will be renewed exactly as it stands. The general idea that clauses directed against France by Italy will be struck out is, he says, without foundation, for no such clauses exist. The Alliance in intended to be defensive, and to prevent the attack on any one Power by two, and against Italy there is only one attacking Power, Austria being neutralised by the Treaty itself. This is sensible enough as an explanation of the legal effect of an international document, but in reality its meaning is rather thin. If Italy is attacked by France, and in danger of being defeated, Germany and Austria must intervene, or Italy, enraged at a disappointment which she would attribute to treachery, would at once make peace and carry over her forces to the other side. When national existence is in question agreements, however carefully drawn, are apt to go by the board.
