1 AUGUST 1914, Page 2

It was Germany's attitude in this respect which put an

end to Sir Edward Grey's well-meant attempt at intervention. When, with all due diplomatic courtesy, Sir Edward Grey asked that the Ambassadors in London of Germany, France, Italy, and Britain should confer with a view to using their good offices to prevent friction between Russia and Austria- Hungary, Germany courteously but also promptly replied that she did not think any good could come of his proposed scheme. She inferred that the best hope was for Russia and Austria-Hungary to converse together. This they have been doing during the week, though it is now said that these conver- sations have ceased.