We have not a word to say against the manner
in which the negotiations were conducted, either by the Foreign Office or by Lord Haldane. What amazes us, however, is that, after the Germans had allowed us to see so plainly what was in their 'minds, the Government did not begin to make instant prepara- tion 'for war. After having rebuffed the Germans, and having let them see, as they must have seen, that we understood what they were up to in their desire to isolate Russia and France, one would have thought that, instead of neglecting such advice as the Spectator humbly tendered them, viz., to get a million rifles ready, the Government would have got ready two million. It is a safe rule never to trust a man whom you have found out He will never forget or forgive it.
Therefore when you have unmasked him you should prepare for the worst.
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