The European Crisis

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Dec 30, 1886

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 12, No. 50.

The European Crisis.

NEW YORK, December 27.—The Star's London special of December 26 says: "In an interview on the foreign situation, an admiral of the fleet stated to-night that war in the spring, if not sooner, is certain. England will probably be involved. The chances are in favor of hostilities breaking out in one quarter or another as early as the beginning of March. If the preparations of the hostile powers were sufficiently advanced, troops would be in motion before the middle of February.

"The Admiral, who reflects the best official opinion, stated that Russia is certainly resolved to seize Constantinople at any cost of lives and treasure. Turkey is powerless without European assistance. Russia once firmly planted at Constantinople, no European power could dislodge her. She could block the entrance to the Black Sea and destroy the whole fabric of British commerce in that region.

"Such being the prospect, it is considered the duty of Great Britain to arm at all points. Unceasing exertions are being put forth to bring the British navy up to the highest possible efficiency. Additional hands are being put on all the iron-clads, cruisers, and torpedoes under construction or making ready for sea. Fresh contracts are being prepared for additional iron-clads, and arsenals and dock-yards are making and distributing enormous quantities of ammunition, stores, and other war material."