The Waikato Argus GEORGE EDGECUMBE, Proprietor. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 1898.

Waikato Argus, Volume V, Issue 360, 29 October 1898, Page 2

The Waikato Argus GEORGE EDGECUMBE, Proprietor. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 1898.

The latest intelligence with regard to the relations of England and France gives reason to anticipate that France will retire from Fashoda. If so, the immediate outbreak of war is less imminent than has appeared to be the case during the last few Aveeks. Neither Power, however, seem to be slackening in its exertions to place itself in the best state of preparedness for war. Facts which have come to light clearly prove that the French Government were fully aware that Lord Salisbury's Government would resent any attempt to occupy the territory which they claimed as belonging by right to England ; and, further, that, as Mr Cecil Rhodes puts it, " Great Britain would fight to prevent the cutting of British connections between North and South Africa." France's demand would have this effect.

The time has surely come when England should insist upon France ceasing to give trouble in the carrying out of her policy. We have given way to her so often on matters of no great moment that the French Government and the French people have arrived at the conclusion that England will not fight under any circumstances. They are now awakening to the fact that Britain will not sacrifice any principle. Now that we have gone so far in preparations for war, a clear understanding should be arrived at. It is perfectly clear that unless France permanently climbs down, war must eventuate, and an ultimatum should be submitted in such

terms that there can lie no future misunderstanding as to the position in which the two countries stand relatively. Judging by the rumours which have reached us, this appears to be the determination of Lord Salisbury.