As threats and entreaties have proved equally vain against
censorship the Paris _Temps_ attacks it with ridicule. Pierre
Mille, one of the best known contributors, writes a column article,
beginning:
"Regarding the origin of the convulsion which is shaking Europe,
together with the least known diplomatic secrets and the most
concealed strategic projects, I am going to make some most important
revelations."
Before he can reveal anything here, however, the censor intervenes
with a four-line cut. He continues:
"It will be remembered that Napoleon once cried before the
Pyramids----" (Here is another slash.)
The writer goes on:
"But we do not need the support of history or the remembrance of
the victories won by Jeanne d'Arc at (name excised) or at Valmy by
(another obliteration). One fact I will add----" (Here follows a
ten-line cut.)
He continues:
"His undaunted attitude at----" (This time ten lines more disappear.)
The article proceeds:
"She cried in a trembling voice, 'Oh daughter, cruel----' (the
woman's speech is all excised save the words 'the devourers fight
among themselves,' although the passage appears to be taken from
nothing more modern or harmful than a famous tragedy).
The writer makes a last effort:
"The adversary's position was now very serious. Throwing himself
upon his knees, he cried, 'Our Father, which art----' (Even of the
Lord's Prayer the censor allows only this beginning and the final
'Amen.')"
"HOCH DER CZAR!"
During a fortnight's sojourn with his armies in the field the
Czar spoke to thousands of wounded, according to a Petrograd
correspondent. His Majesty visited the Germans and Austrians in
field hospitals, addressing kindly words to them. In one ward,
entirely occupied by wounded Germans, the men, who were unable to
rise, spontaneously greeted the Czar with a three-fold Hoch!
The Czar inquired about the identity and direction of a column
passing the imperial train. He was told they were officers and men
recovered from wounds returning to their respective regiments. His
Majesty alighted and asked where and how they had been wounded. It
appeared they all had participated in the early battles of the war.
They were anxious again to go to the firing line.