Nobody can believe in good faith that we are the aggressors; in vain the
sacred principles of law and liberty, which rule nations as well as
individuals, are assailed. Italy, with the clear conscience of Latin
genius, has informed us that she will remain neutral.
This decision has aroused the sincerest joy throughout France. I made
myself the spokesman of this to the Italian Charge d'Affaires, telling
him how delighted I was that the two Latin sisters, who have the same
origin and ideals, and a glorious past in common, are not opposed to
each other.
What is being attacked, I repeat, gentlemen, is that independence,
dignity, and security which the Triple Entente has restored to the
balance of power in the service of peace.
What is being attacked are the liberties of Europe, whose defenders
France, her allies, and her friends are proud to be.
We shall defend these liberties, for it is they which are in jeopardy;
all else is merely a pretext.
France, unjustly provoked, did not desire war. She has done everything
to prevent it. But since it is forced upon her, she will defend herself
against Germany, and against every power which has not as yet announced
its position but which should later on take sides with Germany in the
war between the two.
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