NATIONS IN ARMS.

Dominion, Volume 7, Issue 2217, 1 August 1914, Page 5

NATIONS IN ARMS.

PEACE OR WAR? ' GERMANY AWAITS RUSSIA'S DECISION. BRITAIN MUST HELP. WILD EXCITEMENT IN ST. PETERSBURG. A RAY OF HOPE. L The outlook in Europe is loss gloomy than appeared to be the case yesterday. It is now officially announced that Germany has not mobilised, and France will not call her reservists to tho Colours unless Germany does so. /Britain is still negotiating with Berlin and St.' Petersburg. Germany, states that she canjiot compel her ally, Austria, to desist from her campaign, bui is prepared to continue negotiations with that nation if Britain and-France will approach Germany insists on a decisive answer from Russia in regard to the latter's war preparations. Meanwhile a great wave of miliary ardour 1 has swept over the British Empire, and a memorable scene occurred in the New Zealand Parliament yesterday, when the Prime Minister refeired to the preparedness of the Dominion to send an expeditionary force Public opinion in Great Britain insists. that the nation cannot' stand aloof if Kussia and France are em- _ broiled. . f \ Since the foregoing was written, the situation has darkened. Russia's mobilisation is "stated to be "absolute, not partial," and cannot stop, and the end of tho present uncertainty is considered to be a matter of hours. The dangerous rapidity of events is outstripping tho efforts of diplomacy.

i By Telegraph—Prees 'Association—Copyright'

EUROPE IN PERIL

SITUATION VERY GRAVE ALL DEPENDS ON GERMANY '".,. -' _. , ..', London, July 30:, The House of Commons was packed, ~_ and -there was intense feeling when Sir _Edward 'Grey (Secretary ;of State for Foreign Affairs) rose to make reference to the European situation. 1 :, Sir Edward said lie'. regretted he J'buld-'iicit ;'say that the situation wad ess wave; , than' lefdre;V So far there ihad been -.^.difficulties'-with the Pow- . ers, though joint diplomatic action had not been possible. : / . Mr, Asquith .(Prime Minister ahd Secretary of State for -War), said they had met at e time of'gravity; whioh was almost unparalleled' in the experience of everyone. -. The issues of peace . and war were hanging in the* balance • with the risk of a oatastroplie of which It was impossible to measure the. di-' mensions. ;It was of vital importance -W- tae interests of;the whole world that (jreat ( Britain^-which had no interests dttectly at, istake, should'pre^At--a' united front- and be able -to- speak and act with the Authority -of' an undivided nation.' Hβ had consulted Mr. Bbnar ; (Leader _of the Opposition),! who shared his view. ; .Therefor , ©, -it was 'proposed to postpone , 'tile ardending Home Rnla Bill, till Monday/ in the nope that the patriotism-of all parties womd contribute 'all their power, if not to avert, to at least''circumscribe, the> calamities threatening-,the world. Meantime,business:would' be tonfinedi 1 to iion-oontroversial matters. '■ : ; Mr. Bonar Law said it, was of thb utmost importance .that it should hemade plain that '• domestio differences would not. prevent Britain'from p'resent- ; S5' a nited f wnt: He spoke with Sir Eaward Carson's concurrence., '

BRITISH' LABOUR PARTY'S ).,. , ATTITUDE.. -,' • • ■ v ■'"■' Lonuon, July 30. The Parliamentary. Labour Party passed a resolution expressing v gratification at Sir' Edward Gfey'a efforts in; the cauee of peace, arid hoping that 'Britain: would noi be. dragged into the conflict. Tho party has called upon all Labour organisations to watch vigilantly, m order to oppose in tno-mosfc Bff,ectiye way any action that might: involve Britain in war; • '

. IN THE BALANCE. - - ' ("makes" and Sydney , "Sun" Services.), : ; ' ■ '.;-.■;.: London, July 30. llie war shadows hang 'over Europe /ike a pall;=»not eveu during the Napoleonic struggle has the spectacle been Been of almost the whole white civilmtion of the world arming simultaneously-. The fate of Europe is in the balance; the hopes of pea.ee- depohd oh the last ettorts of diplomacy by Russia. OFFICIALS VISIT FOREIGN OFFICE..'. '■■■ -..'; x-«, , Lo^ d °n> J«iy 30..' LJeutenantrColonel Sir Arthur Stamfprdham (Priyate Secretary to the King), Priiice ' Lichnowsky (German Ambassador), and.Cpunt Benokendorff (Russian Ambassador),.have visited the foreign Office. • "' •. '■•'... FRENCH MINISTERIAL VIEW. .'- Paris, July 30.. M. Malyy,,. Mffiister of the Interior,declared publicly at 5 o'clock that the situation was better than people pretended, and it.was permissible to foresee; the moment when the conversatione wotild iake & turn towards a favourable solution. "Wo haye," he; Raid, "receiyed news from Germany for which ■we had not dared to hope. . M. Augagneur. Minister of Public Instruction, spoke similarly iji i the lobby., '.'■". ;: : ' ;' ' INTENSELY SERIOUS. , \- ' : . Berfln, July 30. .London _ telegrams announcing Rue-. , a a's mobilisation are regarded as intensely serious. . Under the Tripljce, Germany is bound to come to Austria's help immediately Austria is threatened by Russian mobilisation while she is fighting a third Power. RUSSIA ASKED TO EXPLAIN. Berlin, July 30.' It is reported that Gormatiy last nijjfht requested Russia to- explain against whom her, mobilisation was directed; also whether she was willing to'order a oessatioh. ■> WHAT WILL GEIIMANY DOP ".".:■•' London, July 30. . ReuterV 'Agcnoy learns from diplomatic oil'cles that everything now depends on Germany's reply to the proposal that she should suggest a diplomatic war out wllich would meet with

Austria's approval. It is believed the Trip'l« Entente—France, Russia, and Britain—«*o.uld agree to. any s uch suggestion. "'■'.--'-. - . ' ■". Jhe feeling is, rather more pessimistic- than.itwas yesterday, owing .to'ah increaso in v thq military party's influence ait Gormaiiy, and a fear that soirie of the Powers' , do not-want a settlement. : A GERMAN CONFERENCE.: **'. .'"■ V"'-; S*,.■■ ; Berlin, July 30. A conference to-day .at the phancellor's palace included tho Chancellor (Herr von Bethmann-Hollweg), the Chief of Staff (General Helmuth von Moltke), and ; Prince Henry of Prussia,' ana inany qther , notables. ;Y- '■ • '.-.' ; /■'.'. WAR ; SBiPTOMS., >'. v ■ _ .■'•"..-. Loridori, , July 30. _ H-euter's correspondent at Berlin) who is waiting for war, sums.up.the con-• dition of./things ■m:_ German- thus:/Aili symptoms of a coming catastrophe' prevail.; .TheVTown Council at Strasburg' id a -manifesto appeals to the. people tp remain calm end leave their money in the sayings banks. ' Measures are to be taken to combat ; tho unprecedented rise in the price of provisions. " JAPAN "WILL HELP ENGLAND. : ; . '-m ;. St. Raterfibtirg, July ad. ,' : dispatch says that the semiofficial'newspaper "Hochi Shimbun"aaa.serts that in. the event of a European war Japan wiir possibly participate : as Britain's ally., :•■': ■'. • . -~-".

'• RUSSIA'S D'eTERMINATIONjV ' rpw ■■■''■ ~,J s tV Petersteurg. July 30.'' .The. sailing of the British Fleet has created an immense impression. This ' coupled 'With; Japan's assurances, has confirmed- Russia's determination /to stand to her guna . •./-■■ j It is apprehended that will declare war against Russia on* Friday nest, -~- ~:•'*■ ■ , • PREPARED TO ACCEPT WAR. ■bVx ) ?'• pete «burg, July" 30. i Keuter'a Agency .states that, an. , immense wave,of enthusiasm is eweeping over the country. If the Tsar becomes Generalissimo of the Army, as is proftosed, the Grand- Duke Nichola3 and general- Sukhimlinoff (War.' Minister) .will be second.m command. ' >/■ ■Doubts regarding Britain's:.'support have , disappeared,-; end, confident of such support, the Russian public is pre-pared.-tp. accept, war. , •Popular dentonstratiens continue in St. Petei'sbUrg and Moscow, particularly at the iarejvclline of Servian rcsoryists. ; : OBLIGATIONS. i 5 :. IMPORTANT 'STATEMENT RE-' ■ ■'■■; "\.* : r-: 'CALLED'. •/ • ;'

' ;(Rec. July;3l, 9.45 . '™ - ■':'.'■"•■■ -■' ,/ London; July 31.' : . J. here is much discussion in the Parliamentary, Lobbies and in the newspapers regarduig, Britain's position in the event "of a cortfliot. : Mr. Asquith's rlplies to Sir W. Byles and Mr. King on March 2$ and ,2i, 1913, are recalled: _A Liberal members of the House of Commons strongly objected to newspaper comments Assuming that'the country. Jvas uilder; ; treaty obligation to partake in Cpritinental hostilities! Lord in' a letter to the newspapers reiterating tho statement that fidelity, to the entente renders it necessary for Britain to participate in the war, recalls, Mr. Asqliith's statements, and adds that tho idea of maintaining the balance of power in Europe is antiquated. The safety of India and the overseas Dominions are of greater importance than the possible- defeat of France. ." ' ' .. -

The' London "Timeß" of Mnrch 25, 1913, reports that Mr. Asquith, in •answer to questions' b.v Sir W,. Bylos and, Mr. King, in the Honso of Commons, expanded into a formal statemeitt th 6 important remark interjected by him while Lord H. Cecil wan speakmg in the debate on the Address.

Tho country, he said, was n6t un- s . der any obligation not public and. not made known to Parliament to take part in any war. No unpublished agreements hampered the freedom of the Government or Parliament to decide whether or not the country should participate in a war. But if the Government and Parliament deoided to take part in a war, the usn to be made of our forces (Mr. King's c|uestion contemplating a/kndin? on the Continent) obviously could not be stated beforehand. .

The reply was cheered, mainly by the Opposition. It may be noted, perhaps, that the Prime Minister associated Parliament with .the Goyernmont, possibly for the first time, in the decision a'f questions of war or peace. ■

BRITISH PRESS OPINIONS

WHAT SHOULD*ENGLAND DO? (Rec. July 31, 10.30 p.m.) London, July 31. The "Times" declares that;- ,, if France arid Germaiiy mobilise, Britain's duty is plain. She must.make instant preparations to back' our friends. If Britain stands asido when tho vital interests of her friends are at stake, wo should justly iind ourselves deserted in Britain's, hour of trial. If the Angel of Death descends, we must pay our shave to the fell tribute, with stout hearts.' The "Morning • Post" observes that tho general intention of Englishmen is not to look on at the crushing of France, but to partake in tho war to prevent its accomplishment. , The "Daily Telegraph" says the Continent is waiting to know what Britain .will do. If the worst comes to the worst we will help our friends? of the Triple Entente in- every way that is practicable. Britain has to. guard India, and consider the interests of the overseas, Dominions, which have no possible concern in a struggle arising out of the murder of an archduke. But Britain belongs to the European system, and must shoulder her responsibilities and be loyal to those.whom we ask to be loyal to us-''

The "Standard" declares thatcircumstancos may arise wherein. Britain may feel called on to support Frauce and Russia, but they will have to- be very carefully weighe-cj. No British statesman has given France to understand that we were automatically bound to follow wherever the allies lead.

■ The "Daily Express" says a small section of the Radicals is endeavouring to persuade the . Government not to use Britain's might.unless her shores are menace'd. This would bo digging the grave of' our greatness unless our rtreaty obligations to Belgium;.: and at least our moral obligations V France, ure observedj If Britain announced ■that an invasion of' Belgium, or France by Germany would be followed by the' instant blockade of the North Sea and the closing of. the Baltic, it would im-. me'nsoly strengthen' the hands of. those labouring for peace. - The "Daily Mail" says when France is in perii fighting for, her very existence, Britain cannot see a friend stricken or the Dual Alliance weakened.. We must stand by out friends, if only ■hecause, witliout their aid, we. cannot he ?afe; The failuro to organise £lie British nation to meet'the new conditions

in Europe have left us dependent on foreign allies, and!we can bo true to our duty. .to-day, though we neglected 'vjn. the past. '

The "Daily .Citizen" , calls-tjie workers to wage, war against war, arid supp6rt the anti-war movement in' .Germany, and calls upon trade unions and Socialist organisations to demonstrate to this end. ' . . .i. The ■■' 'Daily News" says. none 'out tho weightiest reasons could drive lie into a , conflict, and risk the splendid fabric of Empire. Honour, principle, and interest dictate the absolute'neutrality of Britain -to treaty obligations to the Dual Alliance. War involves 110 question of' principle. ;and Russia's victory would make her dictator.of Europe. : :' The "Daily Graphic" says Mr. Asquith'S impartiality is a. reproof to the Illrconsidered efforts, in certain quar.ters to predicate the ccmrse of British polioy in. certain, contingencies which havo 3iot arisen.' Jfotlung (could be more'prejudicial to the high pacing role which has assumed in this crisis, v , .

LATEST NEWS:

CLOUD GROWS EACRER , RUSSIA'S CALL TO ARMS PEACE OR MOBILISATION" ■ ■«•'. •.' . ' ' ' .'.; . (Rec. July'3l, 11.40 p.m.) London, July 31. German diplomatic circles point out that' Germany. is unable to bring pressure on her ally, to step the war, but will continue to give advice to Vienna'. Germany desires France and Britain to approach Russia,,.while ehe takes steps in Austria* , J ' The. .question of peace or war will, be decided upon'Russia'B reply, since Germany has deoided te/'secure a.deoisive answer, as she is un'able to'allow tho continuance of Russia's preparations. • CALLED TO THE COLOURS. RUSSIAN MOBILISATION A FACT. ■; (Rec. Auguet 1, 0.5 a.m.) ; ;'. \ ■'.'-.■ St. Petersburg, July 31. . The Russian mobilisation is not partial, but absolute. The general, reservists in the northern districts have also been summoned te.arms. ) Finns, Jews, and other elements all whole-heartedly .support the Government. • If war is.declared; the Tsar.will go to Moscow: to deliver the pronouncement from the Uspirisky Cathedral! ; The gold reserves havo been withdrawn from Warsaw, and all- lights extinguished on the Finnish coast, navigation, by night being prohibited. . , It is understood ', that the Gorman .Ambassador on Wednesday protested against Russia's mobilisation/ adding that even if that, were partial, it would force Germany to mobilise. ; M. Sazonoff (the Russian Foreign ■Minister) replied 'that mobilisation, boganon Tuesday, and could not stop now. -~.'-.. A MATTER OF HOURS. \ (Rec. August 1, 0.25 a.m.) ■ ■ . London, July 31. The "Daily Mail's" Berlin correspondent sums up the situation as "ponce or mobilisation within tweuty-four hdure." ..'■ ' ' ■' .INFLUENCES FOR PEACE. London, 'July 31. Very powerful influences are working for peace. ,Sir Edward Grey; has had continual intervic:vs with Prince Lichnowsky (German Ambassador) and Count Mohsdorff (Russian Ambassador), , but_ events are moving with dangerous rapidity^ The Tnost serious development is Germany's demand to Russia for an explanation- of her- mobilisation. It is rumoured that Germany hae given Russia 24 hours to reply. Other accounte state that an oaTly reply is asked. .-'■'•■' Sir Edward Grey on Wednesday asked Germany, to suggest a form of mediation which would be acceptable to Ausr tria, but Germany has not yet replied. 1 It is understood that the military authorities in are pressing for immediate mobilisation ,1.

REASSURING NEWS

GERMANY IS NOT MOBILISING (Rec. July 31, 10.55 p.m.) ; tondpn, July 31. '' Reassuring Ministerial statements, due to the German- Ambassador visiting tlip Qitiii d'O.rsa.y (Kiouch Foreign Office), announcing that Germany has'not mobilised, and that direct negotiations nro still going oil witli Germany and St. Petersburg have been made. ' It has since been officially announced that France will not mobilise unle6s Germany dooe. /

A semi-official statement deprecates alarmist- statements, and denies that the Roservists havo been ordored to rejoin their corps. Tho guarding of bridges, tunnels, etc., is a necessary precaution against the sabotage of- Anarohists. The newspaper "Midi" wrongly asserted that the Council of War contemplated mobilising of four classes of the reserves. The police suppressed, the paper, and arrested the manager, and aro now searching for the editor. .

WAR FEVER IN RUSSIA

(Rec , . July 31, 11.15 p.m.) : St. Petersburg, July 31. The war fever seized St. Petersburg when mobilisation was announced,, and increased almost to delirium upon the receipt of tho news of the sailing of the British Fleet,, which ib interpreted as localising the conflict to Austria, Servia, and Russia.

THE TRIPLE ALLIANCE.

SECRET CLAUSES. The Triple Alliance was concluded in consequence of the occupation in 1881 of Tunis by Trance (at the suggestion of Prince Bismarek), and the coneeqtfeat.isolation of Italy, who, feeling herself menaced by Prance, became a party to the. then existing alliance for mutual defence ■between Germany and 'Austria! That Alliance,- which was directed against Russia, whose Eastern policy was held to threaten tho balance of power in Europe, wae niado' in 1879 by a treaty arranged within one year after the Berlin Conference by Prince Bismarck and Count Andrassy, and confirmed in '80, and Italy joined it,in .'B2. Italy was also influenced'by the possibility then . apprehended that a French.] Clerical attempt might be made to restore the temporal power'.of the Pope, and eo dismember Italy. The three allied nations agreed to-defend the integrity of their Continental possessions, as then and now existing, aeainst. any' other or others -of the great Powers. In October, '87, after a meeting between Bisraorok and Crispi at FriedTichsruhe, a still closer alliance in the naturo of an' offensive and defensive league between the three Powers was concluded. The terms of the treaty ihave never been officially published, but it has been stated that Italy agreed, under certain contingencies, the most probable of which was a war between France and Germany, to invade South-Wesrern France with 200,000 me'n. During 1901 Ml Henri des Houx professed to. give a secret clause of the treaty,' according to which Italy bound herself to place two army corps at the disposal of Germany in case of a war with'France,'sending them into Germany across Austrian territory. In 1902 Count von Bulow, the-German. Imperial' Chancellor, declared that "norio of the partners to the I Alliance was obliged by the Alliance to maintain its military or navah forces ot a prescribed level"; and' that the Alliance did not exclude the'possibility of good relations between, its partners and other Powers.". The Italian Government also gavo assurances to France, that in no caso could Italy become either the instrument or the auxiliary of an aggfes-* sion against France. One main object of the Alliance was the maintenance of tht). balance of power in 'the Mediterranean,, ah object which i undoubtedly had the sympnthy of Great Britain, though no formal: pledge was -entered into by the British Government. ' The Aljiance does hot cover colonial or transmarine issues.

In .Tune '91 the Triple Alliance was formally renewed, and again in '06 until. May 6, 1003. On June 28, 1902, the three. Powers agreed to prtilong the Alliance for ton years, and in December, 19)2, it was again renewed for a further twelve years. Tho revelations made by Prince Bismtrrck in '96 as to' the.' existence of a socrotj treaty »of "benevolent neutrality" between Germany and Russia , until '90, when Count Caprivi succeeded Prince Bismarck-aa.-Imperial.Chancellor, causod .much excitement in. Austria, and Italy, of course, but had no effect on the Alliance.. In '96 Rumania joined the' Triple Alliance, whioh guaranteed her territorial integrity and the maintenance of the status qou on the lower Danube. ■

INVADING FORCE

HALP-A-MILLION STRONG SPIES CAPTURED OPERATIONS NEAR BELGRADE BELGRADE SHELLED. ' . London, July 81. - The Servian Legation announces that the bombardment of Belgrade was resumed at six o'plook on Thursday morn--ing. The principal streets were shelled. ■ Several spies who had been giving information to the Austrian artillery were captured in an .hotel. .- -» ■ custoShouse demolished. ■ • Vienna, July 31. It is officially stated that the machine .guns opened- firo from Belgrade on; the Austrian monitois, ;yhicn replied, and exploded the magazines, and demolished the .Customhouse. , . . :■- ' ■ Fires have broken out ih various parts of the city. . : The .Servians vainly attempted to blow up the bridge. ARTILLERY, DUEL. Vienna, July 30. An artillery duel is in progress-near Smedcrevp, twenty miles south of Belgrade. ■ ; ' '. ■ Official hecounte state fhat only small; skirmishes,havo yet occurred. »(Rcc. August 1, 0.25 a.m.) Vienna, July 81. On Thursday evening it was officially etatedX that the Servian machine guns at Belgrnde opened fire 1 at midnight. The Austrian Monitor-s, carrying 4.7 guns replied, bombarding the city, and blowing up the powder magazine. The Servians at dawn made another unsuccessful attempt to destroy the bridge.,. Sixteen Servians were captured. As the guns in- the Servian Customs. House opened fire the Austrian artillery replied, and demolished it. Simultaneously fires broke out. at different points in tho town* ; . ' Tho Servians are massing thoir main forces' in the Morava Valley, -between. Kraguivakz and Kruchcvats. . . 1

SERVIANS DEFEATED. '.- , , • ' , Berlin, July 30. The journal "Tagos-Zeitung" reports that two Servian divisions were defeated,, and that of the two one was captured.- Eight hundred Servians and two -hundred Austrians were killed. FOUR ARMY CORPS, '"rimes" a.Ti'i Sydney "Sun" Bertlces. . . (Reo. July 31, 5.15 p.m.) London, Jul.v 30 ; Italian papers state, the Austrian inva&ing force comprises 150,000 from Semlin, 100,000 from Svoruikondrina, 150,000 iroin Serajovo, and 100,000 from Milailovatz. ■ . ■■ .

CROSSING THE DANUBE

SERVIANS OFFERING SLIGHT RESISTANCE. (Rec. July 31,-11.40 p.m.) London, July' 31. Military critics npino that the Aus-trian-left lias crossed the Danube near Semindria and the centre at Ratssa Loznitzn, and only small bodies of- Servinne opposiity;. The Austrian right is delayed by doubt as. to Moiitonogro's , attitude,

FLOCKING TO THE COLOURS

THE NAVY READY . DOCKS AND ARSENALS GUARDED ENGLAND'S DELAY IN MOBILISING Ksr~- ( . .'■ ■. "Timc'fe" and Sydney "Sun" Services. , (Rec. July 31, 5,15 p.m.) London, July 30. The "Times" military correspondent estimates the Russian mobilisation on the Austrian borders at 400,000 rifle?, 1500 field guns, 800 machine guns, and 30,000. sabres. Hβ deprecates England's delay in mobilising, and proceeds: "Mobilisation is not war but affords diplomacy fhat backing which it needs. In view ot our position, and the special difficulties which besot our Army, tho Government is incurring grave responsibility by the delay." ON A WAR FOOTING. • London, July 30. The coastguard and naval signal stations ha,ve been placed on a war footing.' '. • ' •The Admiralty has notified tho chief Welsh coal owners that it wishes them ■■O retain their stoSSs of coal. ACTIVITY IN TILBURY DOCKS. London, July 30. . One thousand soldiers and 600 police I have been drafted to Woolwich to .protect, the magazines and stores. i All leave has been stopped. There is much activity in the Tilbury Docks area Tho Dublin Fusiliers, with machine guns, are patrolling \he river wall on the Essex side. Two anti-air-craft guns are guarding the Purfleet oil, storage depots, and soldiers are> patrolling the Newport and other "docks. HOLfDAT LEAVE STOPPED. ("Times" and Sydney "Sun" Berticei.) (Rec. July 31, 5.15 p.m.) ; ... . ... , London, July 30. All holiday leave for. the LonSon police has been cancelled, and the men have been ordered to return, as they are wanted for duty at" the dockyards. ' \ FLEET COALING HURRIEDLY. '•■_ ./■ Malta,; July 3D. ino Fleet is hurriedly coaling and taking in munitions. ■ ' RESERVES CALLED UP. T , i " , London,.July 30. It is reported that the calling up of the reserve- officers created anxiety. „ ..■ ■'. Paris, Jul y ~3o. M. Delcasse m an interview said the situation was grave but not desperate. 1 Peace or war depended on Germany. If Germany wants war she will find the tr l w,-if t chs ?s}i' the B"t«h Fleet, •incl will be quick'y starved. HELP FROM CANADA. n', , TT , Ottawa, July 30. Uloiiel-Hughes (Canadian Defence Minister) has returned hurriedly to the capital, and conferred with Cabinet Ministers.. Although he-has-refused "to make a statement, it is understood ho is considering the question of making an offer to .assist Britain in the event of : nor being embroiled in war. The Militia Counoil, it is reported, is ready to dispatch 30; 000 troops to the tront if- Britain requires them. The military authorities here have learned pftvately that the gravest apprehensions are felt in Britain. A special session of- the Canadian Parliament .'3 anticipated.

CANADA'S INTENTIONS

AMERICAN VIEWS. Vv-r ■ Ottawa, July 30. ' . Volunteers are'ottering their services in case Britain should become involved «). war,. '■ "•; '■'" '•■ ■■ , Colonel Sam Hughes (Canadian Defence Minister) states that the Militia Council has ordered preparations in the. event of war. The "Evening Journal" announces that Mr. Borden (the Prime Minister) is likely to return to Ottawa, and call an extraordinary session of Parliament, tallowed-by an appeal to the country for immediate financial aid in the Empire's defence, : , The Conservative Press unanimously declares that if Britain is involved in the war Canada must assist, no matter at what cost, '■"■•■ _. VWashington, July 30. Diplomatic circles are discussing the likelihood• of Japan being involved inthe war.. The concensus .of opinion is that Japan could <nly participate in the event of the Far East becoming a theatre of war. . ',;. • .; ■'/ . . The Japanese Embassy states that it is not aware of any. secret clauses in' .the Anglo-Japanese'Alliance. 'V \ , OFFICERS RETURNING. . • . Berlin, July 30. Officers are. returning to the garrisons' by all trains.GERMAN RESERVES. * ' „„ ' , Peking, July 30. !. U\o berman reserve 3 at Tientsin,' Shanghai, and. elsewhere, are preparing to. leave ,' _ . .■'... ■.'"." 'There is great commercial depression. . A "KOEPENICK" HOAX.Ti ..t i, i a ■. 8e , r , 1ln i July 30. ihe "Lokal Anzeiger" created a sensation by airaourioiiig that the Kaiser had signedthe order for mobilisation. The ■ edition" was .immediately • suppressed, and tlje paper a '•Special," explaiuing that it had been the victim, of a "Koepenick" "lioas. "CRUISER LEAVES HURRIEDLY. . ("Times" and Sydney "Snn" Services.) - m ': _ ■ , London, July 30. Ine German cruiser Hertha (5569 tons) was anchored in , the Firth of Forth; she suddenly departed at daylight, the. night pickets bavinp; gathered those of the crew ashore- in Edinburgh. A MONTH-OLD NOTICE. Johannesburg, July 30. An Austrian notice ..calling, up the reserves,.has been published here. The imprint shows that it was printed at the State works in Vienna, and thereforo must be a month old. . REJOINING THE COLOURS. • , . . London, July.3o. FilUhusiaetic scenes occurred at the Austrian Embassy in London. Hundreds of rcscrvigts are arranging to rejoin the colours. RESERVISTS ttt AUSTRALIA. Melbourne, July 31. The Consuls of Austria and ' Scryia have not received official notification of the declaration of war. ' The Servian Consul states that there are only about fifty Servians in Australia, and 'it is not likely that Sbrvia •will require their assistance. EXODUS OF FOREIGNERS. London, July 30. There has boon nn exodus of Germans from Paris and Russians are leaving Germany. There have been nineteen anti-war demonstrations at and simiinr demonstrations in a score of other places, I AUSTRALIAN FLEET. (Rec. July 31, 0.10 p.m.) Melbourne, July 31. Regarding the Auslrttllah fleot, it is pointed out that though it ma,v. be h<

volved in any struggle-it would be, by tho terms of the naval agreement, wider Admiralty, and not Commonwealth control. ' , SIR JOHN FRENCH CONSULTED. (Rec. July. 31, 11.40 p.m.) London, July 31.. General Sir John French visited the ■\Var Office and had a prolonged interview, wifch the Chief of the Imperial General Staff on the question of tho epecial reserve sections of the Territorials assisting in tho British precautionary military movements. GERMAN FLEET IN THE PACIFIC. (Rec. August 1, 1.25 a.m.) I , Sydney, July 31. News received in Sydney states that ' the German war fleet, composed of the flagship, two cruisers, and a supply ship cruising in tho Pacific, were expected at Apia yesterday, but probably recent events have altered the programme. GERMAN SHIPS TO BE ARMED. ' (Rec. July 31, 9.10 p.m.) Melbourne, July 31. A cable has been received by the German Consul stating thnt the - North German Lloyd Company has received instructions from the Imperial Government to mount 4.7 guns on its vessok, which,, under the terms of the mail subsidy, are required to aot as privateers or troopships in war time.

AN EXPEDITIONARY FORCE

STATEMENT IN THE HOUSE. . An important statement regarding the attitude of the Government of New' Zealand in the event of the Imperial Government being involved in the European war now threatening was "made by the Right Hon. W. F. Massey in the House of Representatives last evening. The incident arose out of a question without notice by Mr., G. M. Thomson. Ho'asked the Primo Minister t "Whether, in view of tho present very sorious situation in Europe, the Government will,offer the services of an expeditionary force to the Mother Country in the event oKher requiring it?" Tho/Right Hon. W. F. Massey: In Teply to the honourable gentleman I should.just like to say this: So far as it is possible to judge from the information that has reached us, there is no occasion for serious alarm, tint under such circumstances as how exist we have.to prepare.for possibilities, and i'lthe occasiqii arises—and it may—the Government of New Zealand will ask the Parliament and the, people of New Zealand to do their duty by offering tlio services of 'an expeditionary force to .the Imperial Government. (Hear, hear.) I have,no fear of volunteers not being forthcoming. I may say that an under-' standing has been arrived at with regard to the numbers and constitution, of a force which will fit in with Imperial requirements, I would just like to add that so. far as Britain's domestic' troubles are_concerned, I trust that a settlement will be arrived at which will onablo the citizens of the Empire to stand together as one man; (Hear, hear.) Ju6t one word more: With regard to Canada's offer that is reported in this evening's paper, my opinion of it may be summed up in three words, "Well done, .Canada." (AppTause.) 'When Mr. Massey had concluded liis. statement members stood, and apparently with one consent began to sing "God Save the King," and'the anthem was sung with evident fervour by members and by the people in tho crowded galleries: ' . Sir Josonh Wad , (Leader of the Op-, position): I should like to be-permitted to add to what has been said, that I' heard the statement of-the Prime Minister .with the utmost satisfaction. I sincerely hope there may be, no occasion for any portion of the Ismmro to have to co-operate with the Old Country! hut the time appears to be fraught with - a certain amount of danger to the worldat large. I trust that wise counsels of the leadiiiE: men in different parts of the jvorld will be able to provide against a widespread War. I want to say on behalf of this side of tho House that whatever may-be.necessary in,the way' of sendimr an expeditionary force we will heartily co-operate with the Gov-' ernment in assisting them in maintaining the interests of this portion of the* Empire and the Empire v - as a whole, (Applause.).' • ' TO INTENDING VOLUNTEERS. . NO SUMMONS JUST YET. Wβ are asked to state that there is no present intention to call for volunteers for a possible expeditionary force, but in the event <& these being required later, it is , understood that volunteers would be taken only from those now serving in tile Territorial Force and its reserves. All applications from ■volunteers would be dealt with locally, and would hate to be made by those wishing to volunteer through their' squadron, battery, and company officers to- the regimental commanders, who would forward them on to Distriot Headquartera No applications would be dealt with at the Minister's office, or at -the headquarters of the Department in Wellington. Applications should not be .made until further notice—they will be called for later should they be required.

'financial panic"

■ / . : ■'.. BUSINESS LIFELESS FAILURES AND SUICIDES DEARER BREAD C ■ ■ London, July SO. The bank rate is at 4 per cent. . The Stock Exchange is lifeless. Thore'lias been one important failure. "The Times, 1, in a leader on tho London market, says: "When allowance is made for tho conditions', unexampled within living memory, under which business was conducted last week, we have no hesitation in saying that the ■stock market 'is sound and healthy.". BANKS AND BOURSES.I London, July 30. The Stock Esc'hnnge was lifeless all day. Fair business was done in Consols, which closed at seventy. Altogether four failures, have occurriod, tho most important being the Derenberg Company, '.which has extensive Continental connections. Paris, July 30. The bank rate is 4J. Settlement on the Bourse, due to-morrow, haa been postponed for a month. The Ministry of Finance states that a moratorium is not justified. The Vienna Bourse has closed and those at Rome and Milan have suspended time contracts. BUSINESS SUSPENDED: , ("Times" and Sydney "Sun" Services.) (Rec. July 31, C.15 p.m.) / London, July ,10. It is reported that Paris hanks have been thronged'throughout'the day by depositors withdrawing money and valuiiblcs. /. Business is practically suspended in the big shops owing to the lack of cash.' . ■ Newepapers have been prohibited from Uiuinjz special editions.

FEELLVG THE PINCH. ("Times" end Sydney "Sun". Services.) (Kec. July 31, 5.15 p.m.) , '' y Berlin, July 30. Wheat has risen fifteen shillings, and oats twonty shillings. There are many failures and suicides of tradesmen who are- feeling the pinch severely. ' PREPARING FOR A SIEGE. Berlin, July 30. There is a bank panic at Strasburg, where the p\ople aro preparing for a siege. \ RISE IN BREADSTUFFS. | London, July 30. Flour has risen 3s. 6d. per sack in three days. The-price of bread will be increased half-penny per loaf on Tuesday next. AMERICAN MARKETS. ' ■ ' ChloagOj July, 30., There has been another wlieafcpit whirlwind, wheat jumping seven cents in a few minutes after the Exohange opened. ' New York, July 30. The Stock Exchange again broke sharply at a six points loss when the cable messages announced~,.tl)at ..the Aquitania ]md been ordered"to'Ports--mouth and the British Reserves called out. " " y ■ •.-■■••■ (Rec. July 31, 9.30 -pn , ;: Chicago,, July 31. Tho wheat market is exoited, and closed firm. September, 91c to 97c per cental, December 94c to 100 c. AUSTRALIAN MARKETS:" , ,■ (Rec. July 31, 9.10 p,m,).. Sydney/Juiy 31. The stock investment markets con-. tiiiue depressed and panicky; and littlebusiness has been done owing to further declines, and the rise in the London\ bank rate lias added a factor to tho dullness. . The wheat market is excited; 4s. 3d. per bushel is freely offered for old season's grain, but there are no sellers and sales of new season's December, January, and February delivery are reported to have been made, at 3s. IOJd. Melbourne, July 31. The Stock Exchange panicked for' a time on account of a rumour that England had sent an ultimatum to Germany, demanding to be informed of her intentions within twenty-four hours; on penalty of having her -porta blockaded. Business is almost-at a, standstill, and slump rates are filling" in mining • and. investment stock, ) . Buyers of wheat are ottering as high as 4s. 6d., wjthout business resulting. A movement is afoot for a meeting of bankers to arrange for possible con-, tingencies arising out of the'war. The governor of the Commonwealth . Bank states that the bank is making/every preparation to 'meet any contingency that may arise. ' ■"'.,'''

(Reo. July 31, 11.65 p.m.) Sydney, July 31. The Millers' Association has advanced the price of flour by ten shillings per ton. . • ■ Wheat buyers have paid 4s. Bd. a bushel, and sellers are bow* asking 4s. 6d.- ' ;' /

FINANCING IN PRANCE

(Reo. July 31, 11.15 p.m.) ■ . , Paris, July 31. In order to remedy,the deficiency of gold and silver for ordinary social purposes, the Bank of France is circulating paper money of twenty frahei. and ■five" francs; otherwise tho Bank of France is position, having 165 millions sterling in gold and 25 millions in silver. "" '..-,' The Government hae deoided to enforce the safeguard clause in'the Savings Bank 'lawj by limiting withdrawals to fifty francs a fortnight .to every depositor after" fifteen days' notice.

THE LATEST REPORT^

, LONDON STOCK EXCHANGE , TWENW-TWO FAILURE 3/. (Rec. August 1, 0.45. a.m.) ■ ' London, July 31. The situation on the London Stock Exchange is unexampled;' many; dealers suggest closing, which has never been done in the Exchange's history. The banks point out that such action would increase pubUp anxiety.' It is also suggested te suspend, publication ,of the official list or the making-np prices, and the mid-August.settlement in view of the anxiety. '.:- ,- : -. v; .The failure's .involve twenty-two members. . ':

VARIOUS WAR ITEMS

I ALBANIAN INSURGENTS. . , DurazZO, July 30. Tho Albanian Insurgents, profiting by the Servian difficulties, are. seeking to recapture Dibra, ■ Jakova, - aiid Ipek, taken by ; Servia during the.Balkans (var. ■ ! WORKMEN AND THE WAR. f Berlin, July, 30. The Workmen's Congress at flsgen, representing one and & quarter" million hon-Socialists, has issued a manifesto ! declaring that the great piajority. of workmen repudiate the anti-wa"r agitation. * ; ' ■■• . KAISER DOES NOT WANT WAR. Boston, July. 30. • Colonel E. House, a close political friend of President Wilson'sj has arrived here from Berlin, where he was the. Kaiser's guest.. Tho Kaiser, be says', does not want war. The Kaiser foresaw the present outbreak.' some months ago, and used every endeavour to preserve peace. Tho nations' inter"osted in the conflict have been preparing for war since early in the year, Tho Jingoistic party in Germany is'lbrcing \ho ruler's hands. . ■~..'.'. THE MOST IMPORTANT MAN. - Sydney, July 31. ( Tho State Governor (Sir Gerald Strick'-' land), speaking at the Chamber of Commerce banquet, said that in Sir Edwnrd ■Grey the Empire, was fortunate in having a Foreign Minister with such training and qualifications. He was the most important man on the faco of tho earth to-day. IN THE PACIFIC. Brisbane, July 31. Senator Backhap, who hae returned from a visit to the East States, states that if there is a European war involving tho greater Powers, events in the East outside the sphere of. possible iluropean action will movo with startling rapidity. The undefended Commonwealth will find itself faced with a quostion which would tax resources older than her own. A European war ■xfforded an opportunity for a strong Asiatic Power to. work with Eastern Asia in contiguous countries. He would have' groatly mistaken the position if the opportunity ivas not' availed sf. , '■■.■■■' NEUTRAL. Brussels. July 30. Holland hns declared her absolute neutrality. - EMPRESS MARIE. ,- (Rec. July 31, 9.30 p.m.) London, July 31. The Empress Marie, who has bpen on a visit to England, is leavinu immediately, for Russia.

AUSTRIA'S MAIN PURPOSE ' (Rec. July 31,11:40 p.m.) ,■■'..- London, July 31. A letter from Vienna shows that the nobilisation orders issued on Sunday iigh.t were unprecedented Binee.lß66, ind included not only, the Lanstrum, rat also men up to fifty, years, who . !,- ivere ordered to preEent ihemselrcE .'■' iwenty hours later, and the letter adds - ~. the troops are being sent to tho Gftlisian border, and not to the Lower DanJbe. It is believed that Austria's main purpose is to revise the treaty'ol" Bucharest and restore to Bulgaria the fruits of the Balkan war. ■ "CONSULTATIONS. .'-• -' . (Rec July 31, 11.15 p.m.) , t ~. . . Paris, July 31. - M. Yiviam, Prime Minister, conferred with.'M. Bourgois arid M. Briand jnpursuancy of Ins. policy of consuls Ing former Foreign Ministers. - ■ POSITION IN AUSTRIA. ("Timee" and Sydney "Sun" Serricea) : „ ;.■■;. . ' London, July 30. Vienna continues to wear a mild summer.appearanco. The reservists are noticeable in their new uniforms. Pro- ~ cessions in tbe evenings enthusiastically : display portraits.of the, Emperor, and ' anthems Vare sumjr , ■■" • •'<•!■.■. . ■The ■'controllers of ' the Hungarian ™ cl ? s Pension Fund are investing £43,000 m Government'securitieeT.'witE , : a view of demonstrating their patriotism'. ' •■• ■ ■ ■-..,. ■■;.. ,;■ 'The' Press decjares that Austria has well considered and adequately prepared tor all possible eventualities. ..The. Austrian mobilisation robs (lio ' farmers of fifty .thousand labourers, and school children are gathering in thenar- i vest. Bavarian soldiers engaged in harvestmp have been called to the colours, Bohemians in London ore petitioning the King to urge Austria >not to send Slave to fight their Servian breth-' ' ' ren. ' . . . . '-Retired British officers are offering their services to Servla. ■'■' AUSTRALIAN FLEET." (Rec. August 1, 1;25 a.m.) . Sydney, July 31.' The warships Australia; Encounte?| and Melbourne have been recalled to Sydney from the Queensland coast. Arriving to-morrow, they-will immediately -. coal and take in. ".-.'. ■ ; _ Senator Milieu; Fedbral'DefeiicVMinister, points out that this is merely a ' • precautionary nieaeurein-'ieadinees-for. any possible emergency. ' Regarding Australia's attitude in the war, Senator Millen eays.that, if neces-, sar'y, Australia would recognise that slit was not merely a fair-weather partner in the - Empire, but" a "component member in all circumstances, ready to cc operate.-- .•■■■..;.'- SOUTH AFRICA PREPARING. . ~ (Rec. August 1, 0.45, a.m.).. . , Cape Town, July 31. The Transvaal manoeuvres have been cancelledi and the troops are returning to their posts. General Wolfe-Murray has returned to headquarters/ Precautionary, measures have: been taken elsewhere, especially at tho Capo Naval Station and Simoustown. The announcement made by the Right Hon. Mr. Massoy concerning the expeditionary force which is to be sent from New Zealand to help the Motherland if necessary was received with much' enthusiasm at a gathering ■ of marine engineers at the Institute . Rooms in Sydney Street , last evening. Mr. J. Cresswell, president of the "Wellington branch of the Marine Engineers' Institute; in making the announcement, amidst cheers, said that at a critical time like this.,the engineers of the British Empire would stand to- ; gether like ono man, uphold the traditions of the race, and help to "keep the. Union Jack flying. At the'conclusion qf the president's speech all present roso lynd; sang "God Save Our King , - , and ''Rule, Britannia" 'Tvith full-powered voices, " ■'■.'■' CROATIANS IN NEW ZEALAND.. New .Plymouth, July 31. A meeting of local Groatiane passed a resolution condemning the action of the Austrian Consul oil summoning Croat- \ ian reservists to bo ready, -to .defend ;\ , Austria. They olaim they are. iiot Austrian subjects by free will, but by' the . point of the bayonet, and declare that ' they are now sjibjeot to the Union Jack, where tho get justice and freedom. ... Auokland, July 31. : Leading AucklancCOrofttianß aiid Dalmatians, at resolved to form a. Croatian Independence,Leacue, and to issue letters calling upon nil .patriotic-' l ' Slavs, Dalmatians, and Croatians to support the, league in its efforts to.se---pure the indopondenre-of (Slavs, and to . devotethe:money;of the war. relief fund ■'. - Jo pay the passages of Slavs volunteering for service'in Servia. If is report- ' od that £250 has been subscribed in .two days'. PRAYERS FOR PEACE. ).■ ' ' (llec. July 31, 9.10-p.m.) ■ v ' . _ ' Sydney, , July 31.. The heads 'of all Protestant denomnl- ■' ations ; have appealed .to '.ministers on fjunday ■ to make special intercessions for humanity to bo spared the calamity , of tho awful war now threatening. « '■' .. (Rec, July 31, 11.4Q p.m.) '•■'■■■■'■ ; ; *. :;.' London, July 31. The Archbishop of Canterbury and the Arclibi.shopjof York have issued a joint appeal for'prayers for peace) but arenot.issuing-special collects, but sug- . gest emphasis of tho prayers for peace '■ contained ui the Prayer Book. GERMANY'S SHORT CTJT TO' FRANCE Belgium is a neutral Power, her neu- - trality being guaranteed under the' Treaties of London of 1831 anclOT, bv Great Britain, Ansh'in, France, Prussia, and ■Russia. Supposing, for instance, a Euro-' pean conflict were to expose Bolptium to ■ an attack from dermany, a British Fleet, says a writer, would be allowed to Dase tho FMsbing forts without bein? molested, and enter.the' Lower Scheldt,'on its way to-Antwerp,-if it were: acting at the request of Belriuui. But if, for eome reason pr.onothOT, the Belgian authorities, at the time oeing, considered Eiirlish. interference os unwarranted, then the British tfntships would be treated l>y \ the Dutch as a , hostile force, to be kepi '• at a distance Tiy every possible means. A. close study of international: treaties hn» ' shown that the plan cdiild licit'he'real" ised without a unanimous sanction, unless, as stated, Belgium recovered her ftilj liberty t>f fiction,, by Renouncing the prin« ciplb of permanent, neutrality, and running tho risk of the, consequences whieli, it is true, are perhaps less than appoaa / un the surface, sinco tho war plans o}/ Germany, and perhaps won those ' of France, iir6!based oh.'tho invasion of'Bett Rian territory for a short cut, and. therefore, on the violation of., the treatie* guaranteeing Bcljian noutralitj. ...'

THE TRIPLE ENTENTE,

' SPECIAL STATEMENT BY THE ■ - •-.: FEENCH PREMIERS ■ ■•■■"- In a recently published fltatement Jf. ' Viviairi, Prime.Minister of France, refers, to tho important part played by .-the Triple Entente, France, Russia", ' and. Great Britain, in perfecting Hie..alliance, between."'thp first two countries. Asked by the! corespondent of the "Daily Mail,'* the Prcinier sot forth hie opinion on-tMa ■ subject At frrentM length. .:•■ He' replied with 'tte/ following Btetement!— ' .• "Called into being bi'-Kinß F.dwftrd ; VII, and by ,the Read of the French Government,'.• tho Enteiito Coi'tliale botwcea the two great Liberal nations tins bera justified' % tlio enthusiasm with which the tffo peoples '• have rpcoivrd it. Owing to, Its flexible nature this Entente has adapted itself to the moat vario:! i oiicunißtancee. Frjuioo and England, confidelit in eaoli othor'e loyaltr and advancing "towards the same ideal of ovgani'soi' . liberty and with honour, have con>

tinually fouml themselves eido by side in all the happenings that ha\e disturbed Europe during these lattor years. "It was thus that during the recent Balkan _ crisis they woro able, in concert , with friendly and allied nations, to cause peaceful solutions to prevail and to pre tent the extension of a conflict that threatened to embroil the relations of the great European States. 1 The, King's Visit. "The, leoeut'risit to Paus of the King and Queea mil have enabled them to appreciate, how rtho. attachment of tho P^ench^peoplo 1 " to tho Entente has constantly grown as its efhcioncy has become increasingly evident The Tapprochement uluoh, thanks to this Entente, has taken place between our cordial ..friends Qieat Britain, and our faithful ally Bussia, iab giien to the rraflfco-Jinglisli Entente & fuller value hy combining their strength into a united whole. , from \yhich.lho peace'of fhi.'nprljl ;':.' >?••'■■;-;■ '-l',-^ , • ;iv •■...'■'■ .' '7"am'£ully?cbiisciousV6f^thehigh 'moral. "■ ahd-'politioaP'yfllue •ofj;this.;Eir|ente/'"'and- ■ ■ I■; shall ..carry"it: oil'', as "iriy v '•:■■ have. : doiiS,'^ViljhV'MV^coM'deiicbJilt the ...'heads of tho'British : '\''v ,: ihe'' : "^in\V6t. , ;\JSi^j.'it ; .-'ttf.'"'.iiiSsuTa','.'t9/the ..' ■ notions;:.the!-.Vcondijaons, 1 -/ of /.honourable •• ■ '. peace which..are -so-necessary.' to'. the• de-• > ;.: Velopment-6f -:. ::.,,-' cto ■:>:'■ '. ■."■. VP6,ssibie'.:daigeir ;6r:'eirihatfassnient-. to '.'^j^'Zss!3^ii?'iii'lsi™'.s^ i * , ' >^p^''y^'!^i J? ; J.- j:British. '■ nation v Being "embroiled' in the ■ war, is suggested'in ffi'o'following. ques- : ; ; '.tiott..tot ,tne..Prime,.,Mihister' of which i ; ; ;gn,v,o notice, in the '■'.(-, in: view'of ■i'f:, .ttoHposaibiiityiofiiGreai'Britain becdm- .'. ■■■ : ing) inivolvedjn.the European conflict and' . the oceaji.trade:'rout€s for our produce : , becoming blocked* for L an indefinite por- ■';-' ;iod, tlio-Government. Las'taken into, con- ■ ,. ■■ eiderationj ,the ; res^ltant : :.accumujEition . ,of possibly:; larger.'.'quaVitities. of 'butter, :,'clieeseV."jind.otlierV perishable produce •/' within;tnp/Dpminion .than; there is' at V;,'/ present" opld,',fitorage', available, to rei.;;r ceiyeand nrpteofc'. β^majagainst.■ dete'r- •' .., ioration'and'.clecayf'andjiii: 'so,?has. any ;,.;.■ stcp-.bec]tv.taken.. : veitli. ) 'iv l .;v)<)ir' ito.mak-- .■;.' ing, pi'ovisipa'-for:.:adeq,uate.emergency '.- . cold etoraga? M ', ,i '.'?ii;? , :'T' «'?••-•■ :• , : '.