"The Austrians are going to join with us, and we shall be in Paris in a month."
I laughed—rather scornfully, I think.
"Are you joking? Is not what you say absurd?" I asked.
"Not in the least. You will see that what I say is correct."
"But is war declared? Has the matter been discussed in the Press?"
"In this country we do not permit the Press to make the announcement of such things. War is not declared yet, but it will be on Sunday next."
"Against Russia, you mean?" said I, astonished beyond degree of expression.
"Yes, and against France too," replied the officer.
"But why? I have not heard that France has given cause of offence to your country."
"She has been a standing menace to us for years, and will continue to be so until she is completely crushed."