To begin with, France has sent word that she cannot possibly take part in any severe measures against Greece, while public opinion remains as it is in France. She would be glad to act with the Powers, but dares not do so in the face of the opposition of the French Parliament.
England would gladly take the same stand. She is, however, unable to do so, because the rest of the Powers are now suspecting her of having stirred up the Cretan trouble, and so she has to appear severe to show that she is in earnest in trying to prevent war between Greece and Turkey. It is known that she is unwilling to support Turkey against Greece, and that the Queen is taking an active part in the Greek question, and restraining her ministers from taking severe measures with Greece.
On the other hand, it is reported that the German Emperor only joined the rest of the nations on the understanding that his advice should be followed. He suggested that the Powers should first blockade the Piræus, which is the great port of Greece, at the head of which lies the city of Athens. Having arranged the blockade, the Powers were then to send a final message to Greece, ordering her to withdraw from Crete, and if she refused, were to proceed to bombard Athens.
This gentle advice not being followed, the German Emperor became highly insulted, threatened to withdraw from the alliance, declared himself no longer in sympathy with it, and had to be coaxed and flattered till he grew amiable again.
Russia is openly in favor of Turkey, and is indignant with Greece for her warlike attitude, and that she should refuse Home Rule for Crete unless it is under the guidance of a Greek prince.
It is quite certain that Greece knew all about these disagreements when she sent her reply, and was fully aware that her refusal would throw the Powers into the greatest confusion.
Little country though she is, Greece has the best of the argument.
If Europe decides to drive Greece out of Crete, she will have a great deal of trouble in doing so. Not only has Greece a large force of troops in Crete who are well provisioned, and able to remain some time without further supplies, but the whole Christian population of the island is on the side of Greece and will fight with her.
If the Powers attack her, and try to drive her out of Crete, she will at once attack Turkey on the mainland, and with the help of Servia, Bulgaria, and what are known as the Balkan States (from the Balkan Mountains which run through them) will try her best to destroy the disreputable Turkish monarchy in Europe.
The preparations for war are going steadily on. Greece has summoned all her army reserves, and ordered them to rejoin their regiments. All the men are answering willingly to the call.