The German Emperor is, as might have been expected, greatly
excited by the murder of his Ambassador in Pekin, which he is probably aware was either ordered or sanctioned by the men at the bead of the Chinese Government. He has ordered two battalions of marines at once to Takn, and in a speech to them on Monday he declared that the crime was one of " unheard-of insolence and horrid cruelty " that "calls for exemplary punishment and for vengeance, vengeance, vengeance." The " work has now become a serious task which can only be carried out by large bodies of troops from all the civilised States," and " the Commander of the cruiser squadron [in China] has already begged me to consider the advisability of sending out a whole army division." "Your foe is not less valiant than yourselves, and trained by European , officers has learned to use European weapons." "I will not-
rest until the German flag together with the flags of the other Powers floats victoriously above Pekin." In another speech the Emperor hinted that there had been a disposition to thrust Germany aside, but that he would not endure that, even if he had "to use the sharpest means," as be intended Germany to be a world-Power, and "the ocean is indis- pensable for the greatness of Germany." All this means that the Emperor sees his opportunity, is determined to be in the forefront of the struggle with China, and will probably demand signal compensation. His speeches will add energy to Europe, which does not desire to see him acting alone in China.
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