In the Balkans

Pacific Press Publishing Association · Mountain View, California · Jan 7, 1913

THE conference in London between the Balkan allies and Germany, is at this writing in its most exciting stage, that of demands, refusals, concessions, procrastinations, consultations, threats. The first contention of the allies, it is reported, is that Turkey should yield all territory except the bare peninsula on which Constantinople is situated. The Porte demands Adrianople, her most ancient possession in Europe, and it is thought that she may be permitted to retain that city if she will destroy her fortifications. In the meantime, war is proceeding between Turkey and Greece, and Turkey and Montenegro. Reports of success on the part of the Greeks and of defeat on the part of the Turks are given, but there have been no decisive battles fought recently.

One of the serious difficulties which seems to be menacing the peace delegates at the present time, is the fact that Austria does not demobilize her forces. It is not known how to interpret this action on her part. Montenegro fears that Austria will be demanding of her certain territory now held by the little kingdom. Austria feels it necessary to fortify her possessions on the Adriatic Sea, and also will demand that Scutari be a part of the new Albanian state. But Montenegro does not propose to yield any territory that she has, and more especially Mount Lowchen, which commands Austrian strongholds on the Adriatic. The Montenegro ambassador declares that in order for Vienna to secure that, she would have to wipe out every soul in Montenegro.

Still, the general reports are that the case is hopeful, and it is believed that peace will be arrived at on some terms sooner or later. However, at the present time it is uncertain. The great “powers” have not yet spoken, and they may have something to say which will help to calm the troubled waters.