ABSTRACT

This chapter outlines the Ford Lectures given at Oxford University on the subject of English or British history, from 1871 to 1879, by Alfred Francis Pribram. In January, 1898, Emperor William expressed to the British military attaché his desire to conclude a treaty with England. The triumph of England over France in Africa, and the very evident inclination of Delcasse, despite the ill-humour of the French nation owing to these British successes, to smooth the way for an understanding with England, no less than the change of policy in Russia, were diplomatic successes bound to have their repercussion upon the attitude of the British Government towards Germany. England, after Germany’s refusal, had to look out for another ally upon whom she could rely in the event of a war against Russia.