The weakest points in the position of the Allies are
that in December the entrances to Takn will be frozen, that the collection of supplies and munitions will be costly and slow, and that there is in Europe a strong undercurrent of dislike to a war with such uncertain pos'aibilities. In Germany it is believed that the Reichstag will object strongly to the expenditure ; in France all parties• are asking what France is to get even if the Allies are successful ; and in England there is a singular absence of enthusiasm for any special policy in China. The people do not understand that country, and for the present are satiated with war. These feelings will probably only embarrass without arresting the Governments, but they tend to make action irresolute, to favour too much discussion, and to encourage the Chinese, who, though semi- barbarians, are well informed of what passes, and shrewd to take advantage of any hesitations. Were it not that William II. is absolutely determined to avenge his Ambas- sador, there might even now be a deadlock. He is moving forward, but everybody else is considering.
Previous page
