Calling In The Powers.

New York Times 100 years ago today, January 1, 1913:

    Had the Turkish Government proposed to the peace conference the submission of all claims made by either side there would be much reason for the plan. The essential points of any agreement between the allies and Turkey would, in any case, require the assent of the Powers to secure any degree of stability, and it would be more practical for them to take the matter up before the parties were formally committed to their respective positions.
    But the Turkish Government makes no such proposal. On the contrary, it reserves from consideration the entire vilayet of Adrianople to be left under the full control of the Porte. A suggestion is made as to a Governor to be chosen by the Powers, but the choice is to be among the Princes of the ruling house of Turkey. There is also a suggestion as to reforms "guaranteeing" the rights of Christian subjects. but in the light of past experience all pledges of this sort are mere cruel mockery. If, and when, the Powers decide to intervene to secure peace in the Balkans, it may be assumed that they will recognize no such limitations upon their action.
    It is difficult to understand the dilatory tactics of Turkey, except on the supposition that the Turkish leaders still hope to produce dissension among the Powers, but there is no apparent basis for such hope. It is reported that her course does not meet with the approval of Russia, whose Ambassador in Constantinople is pressing the Turkish Government to make the best terms possible, and as quickly as possible. If this be the case, and it is in accordance with the previous course of Russia, whose Government has shown moderation and firmness in a remarkable degree, there is no ground for the Turkish reasoning. There are, of course, the usual rumors as to the bad faith of Austria, but these seem to be a continuous product of the sensational press of Europe, and are as little to be regarded as those that have preceded them. They may be dismissed, if for no other reason, because Austria cannot take aggressive action without the definite backing of both her allies, and this it is inconceivable that she can get.