Saturday, August 1
Germany warned Russia on July 31 to cease mobilising within
12 hours, the ultimatum to expire on August 1st at noon. Germany also sent a
Note to France asking her intentions in the event of war between Germany and
Russia.
Countries already declared neutral are Greece, Bulgaria,
Turkey, Holland, Belgium, Denmark, Norway, Sweden. Italy, although one of the
Triple Alliance, declared neutral.
The Times issues a warning to English people not to selfishly
lay in stores of provisions, and force prices up for the poor, nor to withdraw
their money from the banks, nor to rush from place to place seeking safety. In
other words, to sit tight. From Friday night and through Saturday, carts of
beer and provisions are going west toward Piccadilly, probably for the troops.
Responsible Press publishes no movements of the Fleet or Army, save official
notice that all precautions have been taken...
Our Colonies are offering help.
Signs of nervousness in the responsible Press that Great
Britain my fail in her obligations to France under a weak Government. The
Cabinet reported to be divided. Among the public, a certain annoyance that
England might be dragged into war on Servia's account, as they cannot grasp
that Servia is a pretext in the balance of power.
Germany declared war against Russia at 7.30 p.m.
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