To the people of France: The German Empire and Austria-Hungary desire nothing but peace with your nation. We have been immensely generous in private talks with your leaders, seeking peace even at good cost to ourselves, but your leaders are ceaseless in their desire to waste your wealth and lives in the interest of.. well, whose interest? The interests of London? Of Moscow? I can not tell. If your leaders will not listen to the voice of German diplomats, perhaps they will listen to the voice of the French people. Call out not only for a peace, but a lasting peace, between our nations and in Western Europe.
His Imperial and Royal Majesty The German Emperor, King of Prussia, Wilhelm II
It goes without saying that I shall attend the funeral of my mentor, friend and ally, Franz Joseph.
His Imperial and Royal Majesty The German Emperor, King of Prussia, Wilhelm II