In view of these facts, the Greeks are naturally inclined
to precipitate a state of war. They fear that as soon as the Turks have the advantage at sea they will attack them. If, however, the Powers were able to give a joint guarantee to Greece that they would not allow Turkey to attack her in cold blood, this difficulty might be got over. But what the Greeks will not do is to consent to give up the islands of Chios and Mytilene already assigned to them by the Powers. On the other hand, it is difficult to believe that the Turks will yield the islands without a struggle. Meantime some untoward event on the coast of Asia Minor or in the suburbs of Smyrna,:where the large Greek population is at present being harried by the Turks, may explode the magazine. Friday's news from Smyrna is distinctly menacing. It speaks of renewed attacks upon Greek villagers.