The discussion of German relations with Italy has done the
Triple Alliance the disservice of exposing its weak spot. If the German Emperor carried out his original intention of visiting Rome this year the Vatican would be closed to him, and no doubt he feels that the less said about the probability of his going there the better. But, as the untactful act of drawing attention to the matter has been committed, it may be supposed that the German Emperor is concerned to put the best complexion possible on the circumstances. The decision that the Crown Prince shall visit Rome in his stead is attributed to his sudden interven- tion. This can be only an inadequate solution of a difficulty that need never have become prominent, and the feelings of Italy towards Germany, scarcely cordial in any case, are not likely to improve.
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