TENSE WAITING

Wairarapa Times-Age, 30 August 1939, Page 5

TENSE WAITING

TEN MILLION MEN UNDER ARMS Frontiers of Every Power Manned LINGERING HOPES OF PEACE THE ANGLO-GERMAN NEGOTIATIONS / '\ J \ (By Telegraph.—Press Association—Copyright.) LONDON, August 29. This morning finds the world on a war footing. All eyes are turned toward London, when Parliament,_ at its assembly this afternoon, expects to hear a brief but vital announcement from the Prime Minister, Air. Chambeilam, concerning the text of the Agio-German exchanges. The Ambassador in Berlin, Sir Nevile Henderson. has already informed the Government by telephone from Berlin of the nature of Herr Hitler’s reception of the British Note. Herr Hitler’s reply to it is expected before Parliament assembles. Ten million men are under arms throughout Europe, awaiting the outcome of the final stages in the diplomatic exchanges between England and Germany. The frontiers of every major and minor Power are manned. An admixture of hope and pessimism is sweeping Europe and it is fluctuating hourly. The gravity of the situation is nowhere denied, but the possibility of a peaceful outcome is slightly stronger. _ The earliest despatches pouring into London from Hie Continent today report a continuance of the steady evacnaton of civilian populations from all the capitals and an implementation of last-minute war precautions. Vast tracts of Europe are forbidden to planes, and air lines are endeavouring to maintain skeleton services by skirting prohibited areas. ‘ln Berlin the Government officials are maintaining the strictest silence. The Press emphasises that acceptance of Germany’s demands is the only way out. The fact that the talk between Sir Nevile Henderson and Herr Hitler lasted for an hour is taken as a hopeful sign, indicating that the deadlock is not complete. The despatch of more German troops eastward and the calling up of more reservists created a less optimistic note. The face of civilian Germany has been rapidly changed to a wartime basis. Red Cross workers, indicating first-aid stations, have appeared on the streets. France is very calm on its first day under war time conditions. The newspapers emphasise the clarity of the communication of the Premier, AL Daladier, to Herr Hitler. AL Leon Blum strikes a note of hope in the Press. He pins his faith in the silence of King Victor Emmanuel and Signor Mussolini, and says it has delayed action, given the fragile flickering flame of peace a further chance. Other newspapers point out that Herr Hitler’s statement and views to AL Daladier indicate that he is not absolutely opposed Io ail discussion. Italy is anxiously awaiting the British decision. The general impression is that it will decide the issue of peace or war. There is a total absence of any combative, warlike spirit. Air-raid precautions arrangements are complete, but there has been no further mobilisation. King Victor Emmanuel has moved to Pisa. Warsaw is lense but calm. The digging of air-raid shelters continued all night. The frontiers are closely watched.