Rumors of riots and internal dissensions increase the hope for peace, but they do not always bring it nearer. At present, strikes seem to be prevalent within the Central Powers, even causing very serious complications. We, however, can never be certain that conditions are as grievous as made out to be, or as difficult to remedy as we hope. Exaggerated press despatches or the Kaiser's willful misrepresentation may very likely arouse false expectations. We are encouraged at the Teutons' seeming disorders, but they, too, may rejoice that American industry is becoming more and more tied up as the war progresses. Surely, with a little of the censor's camouflage, one is as reasonable as the other. Our own confidence in the United States' ability to straighten out difficulties, and the prejudiced belief that Germany can not makes the enemy's position appear worse. Although the rumors are often well grounded, yet the uncertain knowledge of their seriousness renders them unreliable. Whatever hope springs from this may be encouraging, but is no reason to slow up our activities.

The recent action along the Italian front, however, is a more substantial cause for cheerfulness. A few months ago a succession of reverses along the Tagliamento resulted in much pessimism in regard to Italy's fighting powers. French and English aid had to be rushed to the assistance of their faltering allies. Whether or not this has been the driving force in the recent captures makes little difference. The important point is that the Austrian Army is being repulsed on that front where it seemed to have secured the ascendency. The struggle for the Plave region far more than strikes in Berlin is cause for optimism.