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Sun (Christchurch), Volume IV, Issue 944, 19 February 1917, Page 6

The world has had numerous explanations of the sudden readiness of Germany to risk an encounter with America. One theory that has recurred again and again whenever relations have been strained is that Germany wants a softening influence at the world's great Council of Peace. After her disreputable conduct on land and sea she can expect from her present foes merely a birch and a boot. America, however, is not yet roused to the same degree of wrath, and in any case has shown the most astonishing simplicity and softness in the history of modern man. Surely she will stay the avenging rod. Then there is the big Bowwow theory. Let them all come! The more numerous the foes that be against us, the greater the glory for us and Golt. Others, hut these have always been allied fools, have suspected, and even openly suggested, a "llobson's choice" theory. Little though Germany relishes an increase of foes, she appreciates far less a constantly shrinking waistband. If she can't smash England now—well! However, the real explanation comes to-day from an unfamiliar German newspaper. Germany is neither hungry, nor desperate, nor afraid. France, England, and Russia she is speedily crushing, though not, unfortunately, in time to prevent them spending their gold. Territory therefore she will take from them, and from America—cash in the form of an indemnity. British colonies and French and Russian provinces will give her the space she desires—the necessary terrestrial elbow-room: her present foes will furnish this, and Uncle Sam the shekels. Hitherto she has had in her ointment one little fly. In spite of the banks she has robbed her expenses have been heavy, and her enemies, in prolonging their agonies, have sadly depleted their national coffers. Now at length the ointment is sweet again. Her enemies in Europe are almost done. With one mighty stroke she will knock the legs from under Uncle Sam, and rush in quick and seize his dollars. Beyond the wreck of Europe she has found a solvent 1 debtor.