STEALING A MARCH.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LI, Issue 213, 2 September 1908, Page 3

STEALING A MARCH.

GERMANY'S DESIGNS IN MOROCCO ' RESENTED BY THE POWERS. , Received 2, u.4-1 a.m. Loudon, September 1. The Times' Tangier states that on Monday Germany and tekea a most regrettable step. Doctor Vassel, German Consul, whose preparations were conducted with the greatest secrecy, and his departure carefully concealed from the other European representatives by the German Legation, left Tangier for Fez, presumably in order to resume his post at the Court of Mufai Hafid, whom the Powers have not yet recognised. His aim was clear. The Germans desire to he considered by Mulai Hafid and his tribes as the' first Power to recognise Mulai Hafid. Prince, Von Buelow at the same tinne. doubtless desires that Germany should fee the sole Power having the confidence of Mulai Hand's side, it is very much doubted whether any practical benefit which will accrue from stealing the march will be worth rery much, seeing the very adverse criticism the step will meet with in Europe. The German officials' version is thai Dr. Vassel was sent at the urgent request of German claimants to settls outstanding claims, and tluit the journey has no political object and can only end m his return, but at the same •time it will not fail to have political effect in Morocco, whatever may be Germany's intentions.