THE ADRIATIC.

Taranaki Daily News, 28 April 1919, Page 5

THE ADRIATIC.

3 bursting of the storm. I,' ytryPAMKNTAL ISSUES TOUCHED. • .Received April 27, 5.5 p.m. London, April 25. The Daily Telegraph's Paris correspondent says there is intense excitement following the bursting of the storm which hag brooded over the Peace Conference for the past few weeks. The general opinion is that President Wilson's step has put the Italians in the right. They cannot be blamed for the rupture. . President Wilson has not understood the Adriatic issues. He expressly stated that his "fourteen points" did not apply to the Austrian peace, and it was a. surprise to the French and British delegates fo learn that President Wilson intended to apply them. But the really ominous features are the departure from the wherefor President Wilson insisted, and the - breach of honorable tradition in appealing to the Italian people behind the delegates' backs. Many found it hard to believe that this breach had been committed. ] It is observed here that the imbroglio' touchy fundamental issues. If the j terms ,of President Wilson's encyclical; are to be accepted, we shall have nothing ! to say at the Peace Congress, because the whole discussion will be decided by President Wilson's interpretation of his "fourteen points." The Daily Newß Paris correspondent States that the Italians' contention that President Wilson's manifesto came like a bombshell, wrecking the prospects of early settlement, cannot be substantiated. It is well known that the manifesto was ready several days ago, and that Mr. Lloyd arid M. Clemeiroeau read it. Signor Orlando could have done the fame if he had desired. President Wilson only published it when he found that the Italians persisted in their uncompromising attitude.—Aus. and N.Z. Cable Assoc. WILSON STRONGLY CRITICISED EXAMPLE OF OPEN DIPLOMACY. I

Received April 27, 5.5 p.m. London, April 25. The Daily Express says that President Wilson rushed into the arena at a critical moment, waving a red flag. Mr. Lloyd George and M. Clemenceau had arrived at a: compromise calculated to bridge the crisis, bnt suddenly the Italian people were confronted in the newspapers with a manifesto which is an example of open diplomacy. We may look to Mr. Lloyd George to find an eleventh hour solution of the hornets' nest, in lieu of the old Balkan storm centre. The notorious manifesto may be a weapon which President Wilson will be sorry to have to fiee as soon aa he arrives home.—Aus. and N.Z. Cable Assoc. DRASTIC COMMENT. PRELIMINARY TO ACTION AGAINST JAPAN. Iteceived April 27, 5.5 p.m. London, April 25. fhe Morning Post compares President Wilson with a rich uncle among the Allies, who has accepted his manners out of respect for his means. The paper suggests that he is using Fiume as a preliminary to similar action against Japan, which is more important from an American standpoint, but the London pres» comment generally is directed at the necessity of getting Italy back to Paris, especially as the German delegation will soon appear. Ot)e influential opinion is that President Wilson's action will be salutary in the long run, whatever the immediate consequences may be, because the atmosphere of the conference needed cleanstag, even by a storm if other efforts failed. The discussions were becoming more involved by pacts and treaties being made public, the secret being such that someone was obliged to cut the knot. The Italians in London arranged a patriotic demonstration before the Embassy.—Aus. and N.Z. Cable Assoc. HOPES OF AGREEMENT.

REPORTED OFFER BY ITALY. Received April 27, 5.5 p.m. London, April 25. There is some inclination not to be unduly pessimistic at Signor Orlando's •departure, in view of the continued presence of soiiie of the Italian delegates, and an the principle that while there's life there's hope. Signor Orlando may return, saying: "I have done what I promised, and Italy backs me." The latest report is that Italy has been offered economic compensation for Fiume, in the shape of financial and commercial assistance. On the other hand, some people hint that the same economic superiority, so far as America is concerned, may be directed against Italy if she holds aloof. It is pointed out that America is largely feeding Italy and supplying her with fuel.—Aus. and N.Z. Cable Assoc. A GOOD SUGGESTION. TO MAKE FIUME A FREE PORT UNDER THE LEAGUE. Received April 27, 5.5 p.m. Paris, April 23. It is understood that the British have suggested dealing with Fiume similarly to Danzig—making it a free port, and giving the sovereignty to the Jugo-Slavs. Thus the Italians practically have autonomous control. This was being discussed when President Wilson issued his statement. It is asserted that Britain and France are prepared to give Italy much needed assistance iit regard to eoal and other materials. As a free port Fiume would be worked tinder the League of Nations. —Aus. and N.Z. Cable Assoc. ACTION BY ITALIAN DEPUTIES. Received April 27, 5.5. p.m. New York, April 25. The United Press Rome correspondent states that a group of deputies carried a resolution that fiily refuse to join the League of Nations unless awarded Fiume, ■Sara and the Dalmatian Islands.—Aus. and N.Z; Cable Aisoe.