Manawatu Herald. SATURDAY, FEB. 21, 1903. War.

Manawatu Herald, 21 February 1903, Page 2

Manawatu Herald. SATURDAY, FEB. 21, 1903. War.

♦ It was thought that the scene of the next war would be around the Japan eea, that Russia in trying to push her way into Corea would be blocked by the Japanese, and that such a concussion might draw France and Germany into the conflict. Anything is possible, but everyihing points to the Mediterranean being the scene of the biggest naval fight that has ever taken place A little rebellion now raging in Morocco may ignite the spark of a European conflagration, as unless the ruler of Morocco saves his head and country, from the rebels, discord and fanaotisra will run riot, and the nations interested in many ways in that country will step in to restore order and thus disagree amongst themselves. Spain has always considered herself the heir to a slice of the territory of her ancient enemies the Moors. France, with her North African Empire, desires to absorb Morocco in Algeria, and England must insist upon two things, first, she cannot allow any interference with her trade, which amounts to nearly 50 per cent of the whole foreign trade of Morocco; secondly, as the Power which holds Gibraltar, she cannot in any circumstances tolerate the occupation of Tangier, or any of the ports of Morocco by a European Power. Against this scheme, says a leading English paper, England must, and will fight to the death, because it is vital to her naval supremacy that she shall retain the key of the Mediterranean in her keeping. In these circumstances it is clear that the present situation in Morocco touches England nearly. Besides this we hear of a Bulgarian rising backed by Russia, who desires Constantinople, and we have Germany ready to grab some concessions in Arabia If trouble occurs on the Morocco coast trouble will arise with Turkey at the same time, and our Motherland would find her hands fully employed for another period. The least the Colonies can do is to take care of their own land if Britain will take care of our Seas, and thus no slackening in martial pursuits should take place.