The Spanish Government have informed Germany that if any more
Spanish ships are torpedoed by German submarines they will be replaced for the duration of the war by some of the Germane ips sheltering in Spanish harbours. The Spanish Note, printed in Thursday's papers, is courteous but firm. Hitherto the Spanish Government have been courteous but weak, and therefore Germany has treated their protests with contempt. But there are limits, it seems, even to Spanish patience. The illegal sinking of one-fifth of Spain's mercantile marine, including vessels chartered by the Government, with the killing of over a hundred Spanish sailors, has compelled the Ministry to take action. Spain no longer makes a protest but announces a decision. If Germany accepts the situa- tion, Spain may remain neutral. But what if Germany refuses ?
Previous page
