They will be supported in their resistance by
England, who in such a case is ready to co-operate with France and
Russia, if such is the desire of these three Governments, in
offering an alliance to the said Governments to repel the
employment of force against them by Germany and a guarantee for the
future maintenance of the independence and the integrity of the
three kingdoms.
I pointed out that Belgium is neutral in perpetuity. The Minister
for Foreign Affairs replied: "It is for the event of neutrality
being violated."
(Signed) LALAING,
Belgium Minister in London.
_No. 40--Belgium appeals to the powers after the invasion of
Belgium._
Brussels, Aug. 4, 1914.
Monsieur le Ministre--The Belgium Government regrets to have to
announce to your Excellency that this morning the armed forces of
Germany penetrated into Belgian territory, violating the
engagements which they have undertaken by treaty.
The Belgian Government are firmly decided to resist by all means in
their power.
Belgium appeals to England, to France, and to Russia to co-operate
as guarantors in the defense of her territory.
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