[23]. Die Waffen nieder, VII, 344.
[24]. Die Waffen nieder, VII, 377.
[25]. Post hoc is not propter hoc. Although it delighted me to hear that the Tsar had read my book shortly before the appearance of the manifesto, yet I was firmly convinced that a long chain of many influences, among which that of reading a novel could have been of only small effect, must have preceded such an action. Later I learned that Bloch’s book had made a deep impression on the Tsar; at that time I suspected that Professor Martens had helped inspire the document and wrote him to that effect. His answer follows:
Villa Waldeuse near Wolmar
Livonia, September 9, 1898
My dear Madam:
I make haste to present my sincerest thanks for the friendly letter of the 4th inst. with which you honored me. I do not know to what degree my teaching could have influenced his Majesty the Emperor or his councilors in the noble task which they have imposed on the governments and nations of the civilized world.
I had no direct part in the celebrated rescript of August 12 (24), having been for some time in residence on my estate in Livonia, far from the capital. But I have applauded with the keenest sympathy and the sincerest admiration the generous action taken by my august master for the well-being and happiness of all civilized nations.
As to the bibliographical notes, I shall make it my duty to communicate them to you after the meeting of the conférence de la paix. At this moment I am too busy with my official duties.
Reiterating my very respectful thanks, I beg you, Madam, to accept the assurance of my high consideration.