According to my opinion the action of Austria-Hungary is to be considered as an attempt to receive full guaranty that the promises of Servia are effectively translated into deeds.  In this opinion I am strengthened by the explanation of the Austrian cabinet that Austria-Hungary intended no territorial gain at the expense of Servia.  I am therefore of opinion that it is perfectly possible for Russia to remain a spectator in the Austro-Servian war without drawing Europe into the most terrible war it has ever seen.  I believe that a direct understanding is possible and desirable between Your Government and Vienna, an understanding which—­as I have already telegraphed You—­my Government endeavors to aid with all possible effort.  Naturally military measures by Russia, which might be construed as a menace by Austria-Hungary, would accelerate a calamity which both of us desire to avoid and would undermine my position as mediator which—­upon Your appeal to my friendship and aid—­I willingly accepted.

signed:  Wilhelm.

EXHIBIT 23.

IV.  His Majesty to the Czar.

July 30th, 1 a.m.

My Ambassador has instructions to direct the attention of Your Government to the dangers and serious consequences of a mobilization; I have told You the same in my last telegram.  Austria-Hungary has mobilized only against Servia, and only a part of her army.  If Russia, as seems to be the case according to Your advice and that of Your Government, mobilizes against Austria-Hungary, the part of the mediator with which You have entrusted me in such friendly manner and which I have accepted upon Your express desire, is threatened if not made impossible.  The entire weight of decision now rests upon Your shoulders, You have to bear the responsibility for war or peace.

signed:  Wilhelm.

EXHIBIT 23a.

V. The Czar to His Majesty.

Peterhof, July 30th, 1914, 1.20 p.m.

I thank You from my heart for Your quick reply.  I am sending to-night Tatisheft (Russian honorary aide to the Kaiser) with instructions.  The military measures now taking form were decided upon five days ago, and for the reason of defence against the preparations of Austria.  I hope with all my heart that these measures will not influence in any manner Your position as mediator which I appraise very highly.  We need Your strong pressure upon Austria so that an understanding can be arrived at with us.

Nicolas.

EXHIBIT 24.

Telegram of the Chancellor to the Imperial Ambassador at St. Petersburg on July 31st, 1914.  Urgent.

In spite of negotiations still pending and although we have up to this hour made no preparations for mobilization, Russia has mobilized her entire army and navy, hence also against us.  On account of these Russian measures we have been forced, for the safety of the country, to proclaim the threatening state of war, which does not yet imply mobilization.  Mobilization, however, is bound to follow if Russia does not stop every measure of war against us and against Austria-Hungary within 12 hours and notifies us definitely to this effect.  Please to communicate this at once to M. Sasonow and wire hour of communication.