The adjoining sketch shows how matters really stand with regard to the conflagration; in reality not one-sixth part of the town, but only the quarter in the proximity of the station, was destroyed by the fire (App. 50).
One of the few positive calumnies can be brought home, because it foolishly tries to cast a slur on the entire German Army Administration; according to the fifth Report of the Commission, a "large part of the booty (derived from the alleged looting) was forwarded in military waggons and later on sent to Germany."
This allegation is a pure invention, for what has to be forwarded in waggons and railway trucks is decided by the Army Administration, and the latter has never made any arrangements of the kind.
The slight importance the Commission even attaches to the tales dished up to them and unfortunately passed on without criticism is also shown in the fifth Report, which mentions the execution of Bishop Coenraets and Father Schmidt. The Commission even speaks about the "alleged" execution, and adds without further ado the fairy-tale that the compulsory spectators of this pretended scene were forced to show their appreciation by clapping. It is impossible to admit more forcibly that the hurriedly collected material was brought out in order to create a sensation whereby truth and justice would have to suffer. One must know, moreover, that—as can hardly have been concealed from the Belgian Commission—Mons. Coenraets, who is safe and sound, is living to-day with Professor Toels in Jirlen, Holland.
Berlin, April 10th, 1915.
Military Inquiry Office, regarding the Violations of the Rules and Usages of War.
Signed: Bauer, Major.
Signed: Dr. Wagner, Councillor of the Supreme Court of Justice.
D. App. 1.
Court of Justice of the Government-General of Brussels.
Present:
Dr. Ivers, Justice of Martial Law.
Secretary, Reisener.