13 FEBRUARY 1909, Page 1

political interests of France are closely bound up in that

country with the consolidation of order and of internal peace, is resolved not to impede those interests, and declares that she will not prosecute or encourage any measure calculated to create in her favour or in favour of any Power whatsoever an economic privilege." The Declaration has come at a most opportune time. It cannot be said by mischief-makers who do not desire an agreement that it is the result of King Edward's visit to Berlin; on the other hand, the announcement at the moment of the King's arrival is more than a coincidence. Without British influence this Declaration would have been impossible. It is a very welcome guarantee, coming at the end of a long and dangerous squabble, for the peace of Europe.