2508.] The issue was thus clear as far as concerned Russia.

It was not so clear for Great Britain.

Even now, we are in ignorance as to the real intent of Lord Beaconsfield's speech at the Guildhall.

It seems probable that, as there were divisions in his Cabinet, he may have wished to bring about such a demonstration of public feeling as would strengthen his hands in proposing naval and military preparations.

The duties of a Prime Minister are so complex that his words may be viewed either in an international sense, or as prompted by administrative needs, or by his relations to his colleagues, or, again, they may be due merely to electioneering considerations.