The German and Austrian papers are fall of congratulations at
what they call the British adhesion to the alliance of the Central Powers. That, they say, makes peace almost a cer- tainty. We dare say Lord Salisbury is friendly to that alliance, and we are quite sure he would do mach to preserve peace; but it should be distinctly understood that no agreements can have been made under which Great Britain would lose her freedom of action. It is most inconvenient not to be able to make such -treaties ; but a British Government is not able. The people do not understand the situation sufficiently to make any promises, unless it be one to protect Italy from the bombard- ment of her towns. The value of the Italian alliance is thoroughly appreciated ; but a new guarantee of the in- tegrity of Turkey would divide the nation at once. What is desired is not the integrity of "Turkey "—that is, the con- tinuance of the Ottoman tribe in power—but the gradual emancipation of her provinces as they become ripe for autonomy, and the ultimate transfer of Constantinople to the representa- tives of a Balkan Federation. It is right that these reserves should be made, lest, when the hour of action arrives, Great Britain should be accused either of treachery or fear.
Previous page
