Yet the incomprehensible is under the existing circumstances only too easily understood, Guesde and Sembat have taken this difficult step, because there was no other choice for them, they had to take it.  They, as representatives of a party which had sent 102 members to the Chamber of Deputies, could not refuse, when this was the question, to create a Ministry for Defense.

That was the question!  It was demanded of all the larger parties that they put up their best—­that is, their intellectually strongest—­men for a Cabinet whose sole task was the defense of France.  When this task is accomplished, when the war is ended in one way or the other, then the Ministry will undoubtedly dissolve, and the Ministerial magnificance of Comrades Guesde and Sembat will be at an end until the opportunity offers of creating a Socialist Ministry.

France, according to all news emanating from the scene of hostilities, is in an extraordinarily difficult situation.  Should the German Army succeed, as seems already to have been the case in two places, in breaking through the French-Belgian-English chain of defense, then the way to Paris is as good as open.  If nothing more, at least the reported preparations of the Parisians indicate that a siege is expected there in the very near future; and since Paris is still the heart of France, the taking of that city would be one with the fall of the French Republic.

If in such an hour of danger a nation calls upon its sons, there is for them no choice; they must answer the call.

Jules Guesde and Marcel Sembat did no more than their duty!

* * * * *

“REVOLUTION!”

Cry Raised by Jean Jaures at Session of International Socialist Bureau, Brussels, July 29.

The diplomats negotiate.  It seems that they will be satisfied to take from Servia a little of its blood.  We have, therefore, a little rest to insure peace.  But to what lesson is Europe submitted?  When after twenty centuries of Christianity, when after 100 years of the triumph of the principles of the rights of men, how is it possible that millions of persons, without knowing why, can kill each other?

And Germany?  If she knew of the Austrian note, it is inexcusable to have permitted such a step.  And if she did not know of this Austrian note, what is her Governmental wisdom?  You have an agreement which drags you into war and you do not know what you have been dragged for?  I ask, What people have shown so much anarchy?

Nevertheless the authorities hesitate.  Let us profit by it and organize.  For us, French Socialists, our duty is simple.  We do not need to impose on our Government a policy of peace.  They are practicing it.  I, who have never hesitated to bring upon my head the hatred of our patriots by my desire to bring about a Franco-German understanding, have the right to say that at this time the French Government desires peace.