Prince Bismarck on the Situation.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume XXII, Issue 31, 8 February 1888, Page 2

Prince Bismarck on the Situation.

Berlik, February 7. In the Reiohstag last night Prince Bismarck made a long speech dealing with the present European situation. He said that the policy of France had been of a pacific character since the election of M. Sadi Carnot to the Presidental chair, and he did not apprehend a Russian attack as he believed the assurance given by the Czar was absolute. The present situation was not in any way different to that of 1879, and I he perceived no cause or pretext for either a Russian or European war. A war with France would not necessitate a Russian one, though the latter might involve the former. Re ferring to the Alliance he aaid that it was not entered into as a menace to the other Pqwers, but was concluded on the ground of common interest, and with the view of averting dangers common to the three Powers. When the work of reorganising the Landwehr was completed Germany would place a million of soldiers on each frontier, which no other Power was able to do. Germany would then support the Russian claims for a revival of the latter's influence in Bulgaria in accordance with the treaty. Germany was anxious for peace, but if attacked, the valour of the Teutonic race would prove irresistable. The speech caused an immeaje nrn?&tion iv the Reioh*tag. and the Bill deali ig with the reorganisation of the Ltridwobr was immediately passed, and for airily referred to Lhe Loan Bill CommiUoe. Tliere was a large crowd of spectators in the Chamber at tin time, and the Chnnoellor was loudly cheered on the conclusion of. his speech. Vienna, February 7. The ambiguous references made to the Bulgarian question by Bismarck in his speech last night has caused a feeling of disappointment here.