To make legal their blockade of the coast of Venezuela, England and Germany have declared war against that country. The declaration of war was doubtless due also to the position taken by the United States in refusing to recognize what was termed a “peaceful blockade.” Little has transpired in an offensive way during the week, the capture and disabling of a Venezuelan ship by a German vessel being about the only warlike act outside of the blockading operations. The Secretary of State at Washington strongly urged that the nations concerned yield their differences to a court of arbitration. The powers finally accepted the suggestion, with certain conditions, and proposed that President Roosevelt act as arbitrator. The President, after deliberation, decided adversely, believing The Hague arbitration tribunal to be the proper body for that task. Britons generally are pleased with the prospect for a peaceful solution of the difficulty, but are disappointed that the President refuses to act as arbitrator. The one thing that seems to mar the prospect for a peaceful settlement is Germany’s insistence on the payment of $100,000 by Venezuela before the arbitration begins. There seems to be considerable feeling in England against the course of that government. It has been recognized on all hands that the present situation is a delicate one and might involve America; and some have declared that a war with this country would be a calamity second only to the breaking up of the empire. Germany has reiterated her purpose not to interfere with the “Monroe doctrine” as at present interpreted. German traders are now fearing a loss of influence and trade in Venezuela, believing that the present trouble will give Americans greater prestige in the commerce of Venezuela.