The participation of Great Britain in this great continental struggle is usually regarded as having been inevitable, irrespective of the German invasion of Belgium; yet the fact is that, had Germany not invaded Belgium, Great Britain would not have declared war, at least at this critical time.

Sir Edward came to Page after a week's experience with a wavering cabinet.

Upon the general question of Britain's participation in a European war the Asquith Ministry had been by no means unanimous.

Probably Mr.Asquith himself and Mr.Lloyd George would have voted against taking such a step.

It is quite unlikely that the cabinet could have carried a majority of the House of Commons on this issue.