18 SEPTEMBER 1915, Page 2

Germany has said nothing about the 4 Hesperian,' except unofficially that

the vessel was probably sunk by a mine. Obviously Count Bernstorff's assurances, such as they are, are quite valueless if it is to be open to submarine commanders to say that they were about to be attacked, and were therefore free to do as they pleased. Mr. Wilson has naturally rejected the German Note, and Germany is receiving a period of grace in which to decide whether she will or will not disavow the sinking of the `Arabic.' We venture to prophesy that Mr. Wilson will not give way. He is tired of German shuffling, and wants a plain answer to the question : " Sub- marines or international law P" The situation is as grave as at any previous time.