From Cabinet Order of Kaiser Wilhelm II., Published in Berlin Aug. 23.
The mobilization and concentration of the army is now complete, the
German railways having carried out the enormous transport movements
with unparalleled certainty and punctuality. With a heart filled
with gratitude my first thoughts turn to those who since 1870-71
have worked quietly upon the development of an organization which
has emerged from its first serious test with such glorious success.
To all who have co-operated with them I wish to express my imperial
thanks for their loyal devotion to duty in making possible in
obedience to my call the transportation of armed masses of German
troops against my enemies. The present achievement [near Metz]
convinces me that the railways of the country will be equal to the
heaviest demands that might be made upon them during the course of
the gigantic struggle in which we are engaged for the future of the
German Nation.
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