The controversy as to why the Germans have retreated on
the Western front still continues. The only explanation that we have seen put forward by the Germans is incredible, or, rather, would be incredible in the case of any other nation. They argue, so wo are told, that the French will ultimately find it impossible to bear the thought of the destruction of the things they hold dear which is now going on at the front, and will consent to a wade on terms favourable to the enemy in order to save the further ruin of the Departments now in German hands ! Little do the Germans know the French if they really think this possible. Instead of making the French more willing to consent to a peace, it is of course turning their hearts to something far harder than steeL One of the greatest difficulties in regard to peace will be the spirit of vengeance which is unfortunately, though we are bound to say inevitably, beginning to possess the minds of the French people. Every horror committed by the Germans in their retreat is a blow to an unrevengeful peace.
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