The Times of Saturday and Monday last printed two extremely
interesting articles on the relations of Gambetta and Bismarck from the pen of M. Francis Laur, an intimate friend of Gambetta's. According to M. Francis Laur, Gam- betta was from the earliest stages of the Republic anxious to promote a better understanding with Germany, and acting on the advice of his friend Madame Leonie L6on, he paid several visits incognito to Germany between 1876 and 1878 to study the people. The result of these visits impressed him so favourably with the pacific temper of Germany and the error of Bismarck's policy that, after feeling his way through Crispi and Count Henckel von Donnersmark, he went to Berlin suddenly, presented himself at Friedrichsruh or Varzin some time in 1878, and had an interview of three hours' duration with the Chancellor. By mutual consent the question of Alsace-Lorraine was left untouched, but something like agreement was reached in regard to the limitation of armaments on the basis of maintaining the status quo so far as the armies of the two Powers were concerned. The ques- tion of alliances was also discussed, Gambetta pleading for an understanding with England, which Bismarck contemptuously rejected. Though no tangible results ensued, M. Laur main- tains that the relations between France and Germany were more cordial during Gambetta's lifetime. M. Laur's account of the interview is detailed and elaborate, but he gives no documentary evidence to prove that the meeting actually took place, and has since admitted that the story depends entirely on the authority of one witness, Madame Leonie Leon, who is dead. Assuming the accuracy of his narrative, which has been challenged in various quarters, it greatly enhances Gambetta's reputation for prescience and courage. It will be curious to see whether the members of the Bismarck family confirm or deny M. Laur's revelations.
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