Contrary to
an emphatic order a patrol of the Fourteenth Army Corps, led by an
officer, crossed the border on Aug. 2. They apparently were killed.
Only one man returned. However, long before the crossing of the
border French flyers were dropping bombs in Southern Germany, and
at Schluchtpass the French troops had attacked our border troops.
Until the present our troops have confined their activity to the
protection of our borders. They are now on the defense, and
necessity recognizes no law. ["Very true!"]
Our troops have occupied Luxemburg, and perhaps have also found it
necessary to enter Belgian territory. [Hearty applause.] This is
contrary to international law. The French Government has declared
in Brussels they will respect the neutrality of Belgium as long as
she respects the opponent. We knew, however, that France was ready
to invade Belgium. ["Hear, hear!"] France could wait; we, however,
could not, because a French invasion in our lower Rhein flank
would have proved fatal.
So we were forced to disregard the protests of the Luxemburg and
Belgian Governments. We shall try to make good the injustice we
have committed as soon as our military goal has been reached.
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