p. 2 | Note and Comment

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park, Washington, D. C. · Feb 3, 1916

Note and Comment

Cost of the War

THE cost of the great European war in January 1 is estimated as twenty-six billion dollars. In the beginning of the conflict experts believed that the war would cost about fifty million dollars a day, but it has now reached the total of eighty million. Of this sum it is estimated that the Quadruple Entente will bear two thirds, and the Teutonic allies or Central Powers one third. Great Britain is largely financing her allies, and Austria, Turkey, and Bulgaria are largely dependent upon Germany for financial assistance.

This immense outlay can be provided for only by colossal taxation, taxation which will drag over many weary years, and prove a burden not only to the people now living, but to their children and children's children, if time should last. That the working out of these enormous war debts will not make for domestic peace and tranquillity goes without saying. The resources of the future are being taxed to supply the demands of the present, and what the future will answer to this exaction remains to be seen. The future holds no roseate hues. Whatever the outcome of the war, every nation must sooner or later cope with terrible burdens, grievous to be borne. Those who are looking to the future for the golden age in this world's history will hope in vain. This old world will know no peace this side of the coming of the Lord.