Daily Mail 29 July 1905 Page 5
The Kaiser’s diplomacy in Scandinavian waters is still a universal topic of discussion in all political circles, and, although little definite information is obtainable, it is generally understood that the primary object of the interview with the Czar was another attempt to damage the Anglo-French entente. This policy was inaugurated on the Morocco question, and is to be carried through in every way possible.
It is certain that the Kaiser is resolved on the establishment of German hegemony in Scandinavian affairs, but there is little apparent chance of a successful issue to his advances with regard to the Norwegian, Swedish, and Danish peoples, by whom his Majesty is rather mistrusted. Nor are the chances of one of his sons for the Norwegian throne likely to be crowned with good fortune. The Prince with the greatest possibilities of selection is Prince Charles of Denmark, who married King Edward’s daughter. He would probably accept the throne.
Without over-accentuating the importance of the visit of the British Fleets to the Baltic and North Sea waters, it can, of course, be pointed out that the significance of the step is being appreciated in diplomatic circles.
(From Our Own Correspondent.)
COPENHAGEN, Friday, July 28
The statement by the "Daily Mail’s" Stockholm correspondent that the Kaisser arrange the Bjoerkoe meeting with the Czar in order to obtain the latter’s consent to the accession of a Hohenzollern Prince to the Norwegian throne has been widely comment3ed on in the Scandinavian Press, and has aroused considerable excitement.
Hitherto no official step has been taken by the Norwegian Government for the selection of a King. It is, however, no secret here that not only is Prince Charles of Denmark willing to accept the throne, but that his candidature is supported by the other members of the Danish Royal Family.
The Kaiser, I am in a position to state, has been privately informed of the Danish royal attitude. Norway’s decision, however, as to her future ruler and constitution will not be taken until after the new elections.
The coming of a British Fleet to Scandinavian waters is generally regarded here as a demonstration intended to counteract the visit of the powerful German Squadron.
It is reported to-night that a French Squadron may also be expected here in the autumn.
Our Christiania correspondent telegraphs that the Storthing yesterday unanimously voted that a referendum should be taken on August 13 for the purpose of obtaining the opinion of the Norwegian people on the question of the dissolution of the Union of Sweden.
Oppdatert 24.08.04
Wigo H. Skråmm, Fetsund - Nils
Steinar Våge, Lillestrøm