A WAR SCARE.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2315, 7 October 1908, Page 3

A WAR SCARE.

EUROPE’S PEACE IN JEOPARDY,

•INDEPENDENCE OF BULGARIA

PREPARATIONS TO FIGHT:

United Press Association. Copyright VIENNA, October 5. Tlio None “Free Press” asserts that tho Emperor Francis Josef will address an autogvaph letter to the Powers referring, to tho necessity of changing the present relations between Austria and Bosnia-Herzogovinia, but stating that the change contemplated would not overstep tho limits of the Berlin treaty. The “Free Press” believes it possible to Hud within the treaty a title of ownership which would convince the occupiers of tho provinces they should be separated from Austria. LONDON, October 5. Tho “Times” Paris correspondent • states that Bulgaria to-day proclaims its independence, probably through national declaration by the Sobranje, and on Tuesday Austria-Hungary will announce formal annexation of Bos-nia-Herzegovinia. Commenting on this very serious announcement tho “Times”' severely censures this flagrant breach of the Treaty of Berlin. It declares that the nows will bo received in Britain with great regret anil greater indignation. Later the “Times” correspondent telegraphed that Count Khevonhuller, Austrian Ambassador in Franco, had greatly over-stated, the acquiescence of « the Powers since there was reason to believe that Germany views tho proposed breach of the treaty with fundamental aversion, but was not in a position to directly oppose an Austrian ally. Italy is willing to consider Austria’s proposals, but stipulates for the restitution of Novibazar, also the revision of certain treaty restrictions imposed on Montenegro. Russia vir T tually says that since Austria anch Bulgaria intend to tear up the treaty provisions which they find inconvenient Russia will also raise questions, including that of tho Dardenelles. The “'Times” mentions a report that France and England will formally protest l against Austria and Bulgaria’s lawless action. It hints that a conference of the Powers is probable. The “Daily Mail” states that Prince Ferdinand will assume the title of Czar of tho Bulgarians. The “Telegraph” states that the Hungarian delegations on Thursday ■will declare Bosnia-Herzogovinia an Austrian imperial and royal dominion. Reuter’s Berlin correspondent says that it is officially announced that should the Porte ask the Powers’ advice respecting the use of an armed force Germany will be unable to recommend war, because the Turkish army is unprepared and tho Bulgarians are ready. The “Times” Paris correspondent states that Emperor Josef, in a let-

ter to President Fallieres explains that he favors Bosnia-Herzegovmia’s dc- , mantl for a constitution, but AustriaHungary’s relations to the occupied provinces are too anomalous to permit a constitution without previously annexing. The “Times” correspondent states that Emperor Josef’s letter, so Count Khevenhuller, Austrian Minister at Paris, was verbally informed, to President Fallieres, stated that Russia, Germany, and Italy had already given assurances of their approval. Apparently negotiations were conducted by Baron Aehrenthal, Prince Bulow, M. Isvolsky, and Signor Tittoni, with perfect- secrecy, without' the knowledge or co-operation oi France and England. “Le Temps” states that Austria is willing to propitiate the Turks by the restitution of Sanjak and Novibazar. The “Times” Paris correspondent suggests that Italy has perhaps been placated by the promise of Port Albania and a free hand' in Tunis. Referring to Bulgaria’s provocative attitude the correspondent remarks that the peace of Europe may hang in the balance to-morrow. Though stocks in London dropped sharply at the outset it.< is generally believed that peace will be maintained. The entire English press condemns Bulgaria severely, and blames the Austrian procedure. The “Evening Standard” states that their action threatens one of the finest national movements in the world. Constantinople, blames Germany. It is suspected 1 that she seeks to humilitate the Young Turks. The nows of the action of Bulgaria and Austria was received to-day in official and diplomatic quarters in London with marked disfavor. SOFIA, Oct. 5. Bulgaria’s independence has been proclaimed at Tirnovo, in the presence of Prince-Ferdinand and Ministers. One hundred and thirty thousand trpops are ready to take the field. ’