It seemed probable that Russia, relying on the support of Germany, would endeavour to force her own terms on the Porte.
Lord Loftus, British Ambassador at St.Petersburg, was therefore charged to warn the Ministers of the Czar (January 16) that any treaty made separately between Russia and Turkey, which affected the international treaties of 1856 and 1871, would not be valid without the consent of all the signatory Powers.

Four days later the Muscovite vanguard entered Adrianople, and it appeared likely that peace would soon be dictated at Constantinople without regard to the interests of Great Britain and Austria.
Such was the general position when Parliament met at Westminster on January 17.

The Queen's Speech contained the significant phrase that, should hostilities be unfortunately prolonged, some unexpected occurrence might render it incumbent to adopt measures of precaution.
Five days later it transpired that the Sultan had sent an appeal to Queen Victoria for her mediation with a view to arranging an armistice and the discussion of the preliminaries of peace.

In accordance with this appeal, the Queen telegraphed to the Emperor of Russia in these terms:-- I have received a direct appeal from the Sultan which I cannot leave without an answer.

Knowing that you are sincerely desirous of peace, I do not hesitate to communicate this fact to you, in hope that you may accelerate the negotiations for the conclusion of an armistice which may lead to an honourable peace.
This communication was sent with the approval of the Cabinet.