November 14, 1892
Here is that sketch. Perhaps the gentlemen will find in it something to start from. I think perhaps what is good in it may be the fact that it contains a programme which marks out the line for further activity and eliminates that which a peace union cannot do; that is to say, itself founding peace, removing the political causes of war.
Here is also a second sketch for notices in the papers—will be easier to find room for than the big appeal. Oh, this overloading with work! One is caught in the wheels of so many machines that one scarcely knows where one is. You are in it too now. It is lucky, anyhow, that Südekum can help. The unpleasantnesses and difficulties in the birth and infancy of the Union—oh, I know them too; the only thing that helps one over them is a look toward the loftiness of the goal. With hearty hand-clasp to the brave comrade in arms, etc.
November 16, 1892
From Roggenbach I received the inclosed letter, which I beg that I may have back after a few days. I send it because it contains so much that is important, and what it contains is so useful for the formation and the programme of the new society, that it is well for you and the comrades to read it. The point is—this grows clearer and clearer—neither to deny nor to affirm the status quo; simply to leave it unmentioned. Only in this way can Frenchmen and Germans work in common for our end.
November 21, 1892
In your letter received to-day I am startled by “Förster is not willing.” Had he not already given his adhesion? Have we not published the news a little too soon? To-day I have written twelve pages again to Roggenbach.
November 29, 1892
I am very much delighted at the organization of the Committee. If a session took place, please get this intelligence into No. 12.... Unfortunately, Oldenburg will not come forward. He declares he has never wanted to go before the public politically, and as a colonel still less can he do so in the peace movement. But perhaps I may accomplish something yet. On the seventh of December he is coming to the General Assembly; on the eighth we dine with him and his wife at Castle Erlaa; perhaps at dessert he can be brought to something.
December 3, 1892