Wilhelm II

“ Germany is in no need of fresh military glory, nor does she require any new conquests, for she has already obtained once for all, on the field of battle, the right to exist as an united and independent nation. ”

“ My love for the German Army, and the position I occupy in regard to it, will never lead me into the temptation to endanger the benefits which the country derives from peace, provided, of course, that war does not become a necessity forced upon us by an attack upon the Empire or its Allies. The object of the Army is to secure peace for us, or, if peace is broken, to be in a position to fight for it with honour. And that, with God's help, the Army will be able to accomplish, now that its strength has recently been supplemented by the Army Bill which you passed unanimously. ”

“ Trusting in God and in the military efficiency of our people, I confidently hope that it will be granted to us for a long time to come to foster and consolidate, by peaceful labour, what was won on the battlefield under the guidance of my two last predecessors on the Throne, who are now resting in God. ”