Albert The Lioii=Hearted
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The late King of the Belgians in War and Peace
A Very Gallant Gentleman."
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Vol. 7, No.
Published Quarterly
April, 1934
(Specially contributed to the Y-pres Times
By Henry Benson, M.A.
THE first State visit that King Albert made, after his accession in December,
1909, was to Berlin, and few know how great was the pressure which the ex-
Kaiser then brought to bear in order to conclude an alliance between Germany
and Belgium. Personal friendship, family kinship and the advantages of such a
compact to the smaller kingdom were urged in vain.
Then followed the historic interview between the two monarchs in November,
1913, at which General von Moltke, Chief of the German Staff, was a third party.
The All-Highest told King Albert that war with France was both necessary and
inevitable. Von Moltke supported his Sovereign's opinion, and declared himself
certain of success. Your Majesty must realise the irresistible eagerness with
which the day is being awaited by the whole German people." Then in French
he added: Cette fois il faut en finir."
Nevertheless, both the War Lord and his General had failed to form a correct
estimate of the lion-hearted man with whom they were dealing. Persuasion
followed by covert threats, was as raindrops on the Sphinx, and King Albert's curt
reply completely annihilated further argument
The independence of Belgium is guaranteed by the Great Powers, and she
will expect both France and Germany to honour their signatures and respect her
neutrality."
Faith in His Country's Destiny.
It was my privilege to be present in the Belgian Parliament House in Brussels
on 4th of August, 1914, when King Albert, attired in the full dress of a Belgian
General, made his memorable speech from the throne. Never in the world's long
history has a more dignified defiance been hurled in the face of an arrogant and
dastardly foe.
Not since 1830, has a more grave hour sounded for Belgium," he declared.
Our duty is clear. We must maintain an indomitable resistance, courage and
unity. This is the supreme moment for action.
