ABSTRACT
One can safely assume that the next war will be fought on two fronts. France is our most dangerous enemy and can prepare the fastest. A reckoning with French forces has to come very shortly after deployment. If we are successful in defeating the French quickly and decisively, then troops will be available for use against Russia. I agree with the basic idea of opening the war with a powerful offensive into France while remaining initially on the defensive against Russia. If one desires a rapid decision with France, one cannot direct the attack solely against the strongly fortified eastern front of this country. If the French remain, as expected, on the defensive behind this front, there is no possibility of breaking through it quickly, and even if the breakthrough is successful, the German army, or a part of the army, will be exposed to attack from two sides. In order to find the enemy in the open [im freien Felde], the fortified border must be enveloped. This is only possible by way of an advance through Switzerland or through Belgium. The first would have great difficulties and, because of the defence of the mountain roads, would require a long time. However, a successful envelopment of the French fortresses could have the advantage of pushing the French army to the north. An advance through Belgium will push the French back into the heart of their hinterland. None the less, this is preferred, as we can count upon a more rapid advance there and upon the inefficient Belgian army being scattered, unless the Belgian army withdraws into Antwerp without a fight, which then must be sealed off.
