It may be that it was true respecting the diplomacy of his century, but I cannot imagine a maxim less suited to the present day.

The millions who are fighting, whether in the trenches or behind the lines, wish to know why and wherefore they are fighting.

They have a right to know why peace, which all the world is longing for, has not yet been made.
When I entered upon office I seized the first opportunity openly to state that we should commit no violence, but that we should tolerate none, and that we were ready to enter into peace negotiations as soon as our enemies accepted the point of view of a peace of understanding.

I think I have thus clearly explained, though on broad lines only, the peace idea of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy.

Many at home and also in friendly countries abroad have reproached me for speaking so openly.