First of all, come his remarks on the subject of foreign
policy. "It rests with us to maintain in its integrity the work
accomplished by the great Emperor and to defend it against the
influences and claims of foreigners." On such an occasion, after the
remarks on "justice and equity," which he made on board the _Pothuau_,
the hot-headed Emperor was bound to deliver himself in some such strain.
The next toast was that which he proposed at Hamburg in honour of King
Humbert and Queen Marguerita. This one is emphatic and at the same
time gracious, for William II cultivates every style and all the arts.
On this occasion the King of Prussia, Emperor of Germany, referred as
usual to the solidity of the Triple Alliance and to the mandate which
it has assumed for the preservation of peace. He spoke as the grandson
of William I. King Humbert replied as the grandson of Victor Emmanuel
(_sic_), skilfully gliding over the question of the indissoluble nature
of the Triple Alliance and reminding his hearers that Germany has no
monopoly in the pursuit of peace, but that all the Governments of
Europe are equally concerned in endeavouring to attain it.
A movement is taking shape in Italy, full of danger and of promise, as
events will prove. The clericals and the republicans have sketched the
outline of an understanding, which looks as if it might be approved by
Leo XIII. The danger of this union between the parties will lead King
Humbert back to a more national, a more peninsular, policy.
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