The probability is that Russia will avoid any appearance of treachery towards her Allies, and will endeavour to find a method which will practically lead to a state of peace between herself and the Central Powers, but outwardly will have the appearance of the union of both parties as a prelude to the general peace.
As in July, 1914, we entered regardlessly into a loyal alliance with Austria-Hungary, in like manner when the world war is at an end will a basis be found for terms which will guarantee a prosperous peace to the two closely united Monarchies.
This optimistic reply of Bethmann's was obviously not only based on the idea of infusing more confidence in the future in us, but was also the true expression of a more favourable atmosphere prevailing, as Berlin naturally received the same reports from the enemy countries as we did.
I received about that time a letter from Tisza which contained the following passage:-- The varied information received from the enemy countries leaves no doubt that the war is drawing to a close.

It is now above all essential to keep a steady nerve and play the game to the end with _sangfroid_.

Let there be no signs of weakness.

It is not from a love of humanity in general that our enemies have become more peacefully inclined, but because they realise that we cannot be crushed.
I beg of you no longer to give vent to the sentiments in your report of April 12.

A pessimistic tendency evinced now by the leader of our foreign affairs would ruin everything.