If only I could now settle things with Russia quickly, and thus perhaps secure the possibility of a peace all round.

All reports from Russia seem to point to the fact that the Government there is determined on peace, and peace as speedily as possible.

But the Germans are now full of confidence.

If they can throw their massed forces against the West, they have no doubt of being able to break through, take Paris and Calais, and directly threaten England.

Such a success, however, could only lead to peace if Germany could be persuaded to renounce all plans of conquest.