Gratz has convened a meeting with the Petersburgers for to-morrow; this will clear matters up, and show us whether any agreement is possible, or if we must break off altogether.

In any case, there can be no doubt that the intermezzo at Brest is rapidly nearing its end." After conclusion of peace with Ukraine, I received the following telegram from the Emperor: "'_Court train, February 9, 1918._ "'Deeply moved and rejoiced to learn of the conclusion of peace with Ukraine.

I thank you, dear Count Czernin, from my heart for your persevering and successful endeavours.
"'You have thereby given me the happiest day of my hitherto far from happy reign, and I pray God Almighty that He may further continue to aid you on your difficult path--to the benefit of the Monarchy and of our peoples.
KARL.' "_February 11, 1918._--Trotski declines to sign.

The war is over, but there is no peace.
"The disastrous effects of the troubles in Vienna will be seen clearly from the following message from Herr von Skrzynski, dated Montreux, February 12, 1918.

Skrzynski writes: "'I learn from a reliable source that France has issued the following notification: We were already quite disposed to enter into discussion with Austria.