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Show NEUTRALITY. Chile has declared her neutrality in tho war between the United States and Austria and in due course of time other countries will follow her example. It is a mere matter of form. Those who are at present in political control of : Chile may be absolutely neutral or may be pro-German to some extent. Kev- ertheless, the United States stands be- tween the South American republics, and all harm from foreign foes, a situation situa-tion that has existed ever since the pro-1 mulgation of the Monroe- doctrine, and if this country should go down in war or ,be shorn of her power to protect, it would be very unfortunate for the Latin republics, Chile included. If the Chilean government is looking to the future this matter should be taken into consideration. Spain will doubtless be among the nations to proclaim neutrality in the war between the United States and Austria, having made a similar declaration dec-laration following the clash between this country and Germany. To the full extent of its limited power as a neutral Spain has aided tho Teutons in the war of autocracy upon civilization. Yet the Germans are unappreciative, for we notice that the Spanish steamer Claudia was bombarded by a German submarine the other day, eight men being killed and others wounded. As there could be no mistaking the nationality of the vessel, it would seem that Spauish neutrality neu-trality is going to be strained to the utmost limits if the dons continue to bob-nob with the imperial government at Berlin. Of course, Germany will express regret and promise reparation and thus give the Spanish rulers another an-other opportunity to debase themselves, but more Spanish vessels will be sunk and more Spanish sailors murdered whenever the submarine commanders see fit and the Spaniards will be compelled com-pelled to make the best of it. One docs not have to bo the seventh son of a seventh son or make any pretense of being a, prophet to foretell what will happen to the Spanish monarchy when Wilhelm's crown is cast into the scrap, heap. ; Turning again to the countries on this : side of the Atlantic ocean we find Cuba prepared to take up arms against Austria, Aus-tria, having already declared war on Germany. Notice is thus given to the world that the little republic proposes to rise or fall with the United States. In view of the blood and treasiire this country expended in order to free the Cubans, from the Spanish yoke perhaps they could do no less than show their appreciation by ranging themselves alongside Uncle Sam when he goes forth to battle for democracy. Neverthe- ; less, the stand taken by the island re- j public is sure to be highly appreciated j by the American people and Cuba will ; be gainer rather than loser when peace i returns to the distracted world. ; There are other signs of the times that may well be mentioned in connection connec-tion with tiie war. China, to all intents and purposes, is already in so far as a mere declaration goes. But up to the present time she has not Jeen active. Wo note the arrival of twelve British army officers at an Atlantic port on their way to China. The purpose pur-pose of their visit is not disclosed, but :it is quite possible they are going to the Orient to engage in the work of 'organizing and drilling a Chinese army ; which will be thrown into the scale against the central powers. The Chinese Chi-nese as well as the Japanese will be able 'to accomplish much if the Bolshe- 'viki government at Petrograd attempts to aid the Teutons. They could at least take care of the situation at Vladivostok, Vladivos-tok, where there are said to be Japanese Japa-nese soldiers already ou duty guarding the vast stores of munitions and other supplies sold to the Russians by Japan and the United States. Other signs j that the whole world is to be drawn into one or the other camp are not 1 wanting. The time may como very soon when every nation professing democracy will be compelled to make good its pretensions preten-sions by joining in the war on the central cen-tral powers or be classed by the entente allies and the United States as enemies. ene-mies. There is no middle ground. The different countries not now in the war may proclaim their neutrality and attempt at-tempt to steer their barks in the tempestuous billows while the storm rages. But it will be in vain. They will not be allowed to reap where they do not sow, and if they are not willing to fight for free institutions they are not fit to enjoy thorn. This same rule applies to individuals in the United States as well as foreign countries. |