MOROCCO.

Dominion, Volume 1, Issue 293, 4 September 1908, Page 7

MOROCCO.

GERMAN DIPLOMACY. A SHOCK TO PUBLIC FEELINC. PRESS OPINIONS. (UY TELEGBAm—rEESS ASSOCIATION—COPTBIOHT.) London, September 3. "The Times" in an article on German action in Morocco, states"Either step (that is Dr. Vassel's sudden journey to Fez and Germany's diplomatic action in relation to Mulai Hafid), standing alone, would havo given a shock to public feeling, but, coming together, the disturbing impression they must create will be cumulative. France and Spain, as tho mandatories of Europe, and as the two Powers whoso special position in Morocco is cxplicity recognised by tho Act of Algcciras, are entitled in ordinary courtesy, to claim reasonable opportunity for an exchange of views before making proposals to others. Every circumstance connected with Dr. Vassel's mission suggests that political, not commercial, considerations, are the real reasons for Germany's action." The French press strongly condemn Germany's action in Morocco, and English newspapers of all shades also disapprove of it. The "Daily Chronicle" says:—"Germany's calculated audacity once more shows her resentment to tho Anglo-French entente." ■ The "Westminster Gazette," a pro-Ger-man organ, doubts whether there is any present necessity for German intervention in Morocco. DR. VASSEL RETURNS. London, September 2. Dr. Vassel has returned from his visit to Fez. (Rec. September 3, 10.30 p.m.) London, September 3. Dr. Vassel's visit is now officially explained. Ho went to Fez solely to look after his house and personal interests, and those of his compatriots. GERMANY'S SUGGESTION. UNUSUAL AND INEXPLICABLE. , BRITAIN'S ATTITUDE. (Rec. September 3, 10.30 p.m.) Paris, September 3. Germany's suggestion as to the recognition of Mulai Hafid, mentioned in tho "North German Gazette," was verbally conveyed to tho French Foreign Office. Tho communication caused considerable surprise, the Minister for Foreign Affairs acknowledging it with the remark: "The stop is unusual, and, in the circumstances, inexplicable." I Tho - German Ambassador at Washington in making a verbal communication, implied that Germany would now await developments. Tho "Temps" says, concerning the recognition of Mulai Hafid, that France latoly intimated that an agreement among tho Powers regarding tho'guarantees which must bo secured for European interests in Morocco is as necessary as tho guarantees themsolves. France solely desires tho maintenance of order. The "Debats" says France and Spain were about to inform tho other Powers of, tho proposals they had determined upon after mature reflection. (Rec. September 3, 11 p.m.) Tho "Temps," in an articlo on 'foroign affairs, says Franco regrets that Germany is not of the same mind as the rest of Europo regarding Morocco, but French policy cannot be modified. London, September 3. Tho "Daily Mail" says Britain awaits tho decision of France and others before taking action in regard to Germany's . communication.'

SEVERE FIGHTING, BERBERS ATTACK THE FRENCH. REPULSED WITH HEAVY "LOSS. (Rec. September 3, 10.45 p.m.) Morocco, September 3. Tbo commander of a largo body of Berbers in tho vicinity of Bendanib recently received presents of a war horse and a tent from Mulai Hafid. This body during tho past fortnight has been threatening tho French with a formidable onslaught. Tho light was opened on Tuesday, the Berbers being repulsed with heavy losses, caused chicfiy by the field machine guns. Tho attack at Bendanib was renewed the samo night, with tho samo result. The French casualties were slight.