THE POSITION IN THE EAST.

Greymouth Evening Star, Volume XXXI, 21 March 1901, Page 2

THE POSITION IN THE EAST.

The position in the East is far from satisfactory. The allies are evidently but allies in name, no one power trusting the other. Any moment may see a complication sending the present so called friends into opposition camps, and bringing about a war such as Europe has never yet witnessed. To-day our telegrams inform us that on one side of the river is an armed British camp, on the other side a Russian. The Britons and Russians arc allies in the present war, yet these same Britons and Russians are watchingeach other with all the hostility of sworn foes, each side threatening to lire on the slightest movement by the other. The cause of the trouble, alleged breach of treaty objections by Russia, and a determination to extend the Russian frontier, has been submitted to Count Waldersee for his arbiment. He, however, has declared that the dispute is outside his jurisdiction, and that he, therefore, cannot interfere. Both forces are now waiting instructions from their respective Governments, but are evidently determined to maintain the position they have taken up. Diplomacy may adjust the matter, but the tension is now so great, that the indiscretion of a petty ollieer might plunge both countries into Avar. What position the other powers would take up in the event of such an unhappy result following is extremely dillicult to forecast. Franco Avould certainly throw in her moral if not her physical support with Russia. It is likely that America, Japan and Italy would be found Avith England, but Avhat part Germany Avould take is exceedingly problematical. We have been informed that she has a complete and satisfactory understanding with Britain, Then as against that our cablegrams stated the other day that Russia and Germany were in perfect accord Avith regard to action in the East. It is perfectly clear that one or other of the statements is incorrect. If Germany has a perfect and complete understanding with Britain, she cannot bo in accord with Russia with regard to her latest action in Manchuria. It is just possible that the imminent danger of a terrible Avar may bring about an understanding, but at present the position is far from reassuring.