The Vienna correspondent of the Times says in Thursday's paper
that the bestowal of the Grand Cross of the Order of St. Stephen upon President Fallieres by the Emperor Francis Joseph is a mark of gratitude for the friendly attitude of France during the annexation crisis. It seems that this attitude was due chiefly to M. Crozier, the French Ambassador at Vienna, who came to the conclusion that Baron Aehrenthal's hand was forced by Bulgaria, and that he was more sinned against than sinning. The correspondent adds that this con- viction is now held by most competent observers. We cannot ourselves see why Austria-Hungary should have allowed her hand to be forced in such an unfortunate direction by a small Power, but none the less we are very glad to think it possible that Baron Aehrenthal did what he did with some reluctance. However that may be, we can feel nothing but genuine pleasure at the .sign of goodwill between France and Austria-Hungary. The more genuine friendships France has in Europe, the better both for her and for Europe.
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