M. Tisza denied that any noteworthy change hadoccurred in the
alliance-relations of the Austrian Empire, more especially with Germany, adding," For this very reason we have no doubt that, having regard to the mutual conditions necessary for the existence of each State, we together shall be able to preserve them without endangering the general peace." This sentence is considered enigmatical ; but we imagine its meaning is that on vital questions, one of which for Austria is the inde- pendence of the Balkans, the two Great Powers will stand together. In other words, for all serious purposes the Austro-German alliance continues without change. It is a little difficult to reconcile that statement with German action in Bulgaria ; but it must be remembered that Prince Bismarck has more reason than Austria to dread war, being in danger on two sides, and may imagine that concession up to a certain point will avert instead of hastening the true crisis, which, we once more repeat, will be upon Europe if a Russian soldier appears in Bulgaria.
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