The German people at that moment found the old question of Denmark—­the relations between Denmark and the Diet—­to be the only practical question upon which they could exhibit their love of a united fatherland, and their sympathy with a kindred race who were subjects of a foreign prince.  Therefore there was very great excitement in Germany on the subject; and to those who are not completely acquainted with the German character, and who take for granted that the theories they put forth are all to be carried into action, there were no doubt many symptoms which were calculated to alarm the Cabinet.  Her Majesty’s Government, firm in their policy, firm in their ally, knowing that the moderate counsels urged by France and England in a spirit which was sincere and which could not be mistaken, must ultimately lead to some conciliatory arrangements between the King of Denmark and the Diet, I suppose did not much disquiet themselves respecting the agitation in Germany.  But towards the end of the summer and the commencement of the autumn—­in the month of September—­after the meeting at Frankfort and after other circumstances, the noble lord the Secretary of State, as a prudent man—­a wise, cautious, and prudent Minister—­thought it would be just as well to take time by the forelock, to prepare for emergencies, and to remind his allies of Paris of the kind and spontaneous expression on their part of their desire to co-operate with him in arranging this business.  I think it was on September 16, that Lord Russell, the Secretary of State, applied in this language to our Minister at Paris—­our ambassador (Lord Cowley) being at that time absent: 

As it might produce some danger to the balance of power, especially if the integrity and independence of Denmark were in any way impaired by the demands of Germany, and the measures consequent thereupon, if the Government of the Emperor of the French are of opinion that any benefit would be likely to follow from an offer of good services on the part of Great Britain and France, Her Majesty’s Government would be ready to take that course.  If, however, the Government of France would consider such a step as likely to be unavailing, the two Powers might remind Austria, Prussia, and the Diet, that any act on their part tending to weaken the integrity and independence of Denmark would be at variance with the treaty of May 8, 1852. (No. 2, 130.)

Sir, I think that was a very prudent step on the part of the Secretary of State.  It was virtually a reminder of the offer which France had made some months before.  Yet, to the surprise, and entirely to the discomfiture of Her Majesty’s Government, this application was received at first with coldness, and afterwards with absolute refusal.