‘Malevolent opponent’ caused Austrian Emperor to grasp sword after long years of peace

Franz Josef I, Emperor of Austria has released a manifesto, alluding to the Serbians, stating that ‘intrigues of a malevolent opponent have compelled him to grasp the sword after long years of peace, and an end must be put to such incessant provocations.’

‘I must therefore’, the manifesto continues, ‘proceed by force of arms to secure those indispensable pledges which alone can secure tranquillity to my state within and lasting peace without. In this solemn hour I am fully conscious of the whole significance of my resolve and my responsibility before Almighty... I trust in Austria-Hungary’s brave and devoted forces and I trust in the Almighty to give victory to my arms.’