THE EASTERN CRISIS.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume V, Issue 1455, 13 January 1887, Page 3

THE EASTERN CRISIS.

[REIU'ER'B TELEGRAMS — COPYRIGHT.] Bkblis, January 11. During the second reading of the Army Bill m the Reichstag to-day, General Von Moltke stated that if the Bill were rejected war was certain to result. Prince Bismarck made a speech m which he said that the relations between Germany and Austria were intimate and cordial, and with other Powers excellent. There were good relations with Russia. Beyond doubt [ good relations also existed with France, though more difficult to maintain. He neither apprehended, nor was afraid, of war with France. It was out of the question that Germany should attack France, but the past teaches that it was impossible to rely upon permanent peace with that country. It was, therefore, necessary always to be prepared for war. Germany, he added, would never begin war with Russia, and would never make an enemy of that country, for the sake of Bulgaria. In his speech m the Reichstag today, Bismarck alluded to the difficulty of preserving peace between Russia and Austria. He expressed full trust m the French statesmen now m power, but was convinced war between France and Germany would occur sooner or later. The time when the conßict would take place depended on the stability of the French Ministry. If Germany were victorious she would not rpst until France should be crippled '■•r generations. In conclusion Bismarck insisted on the BUI being passed without amendment, otherwise Parliament would be dissolved,