Germany made the same attempt in '87 and '91.

In 1905 so definite was the threat of war that France avoided it only by dismissing her war minister, Delcasse.

Perhaps my young friend remembers the Casablanca incident in 1908 where again the Kaiser threatened France with war.

Indeed, for the last twenty years, even while he was doubtless anxious to maintain peace, he has been rattling his sword in his scabbard and threatening war against the various nations of Europe.

In most of these cases even when he wanted peace he bluffed with threats of war.