The Birmingham age-herald., 1902-12-18
ENGLISH PAPERS ARE
 ANXIOUS TO SETTLE TT.

London, December 1S.-The develop ments in the Venezuelan lmprogho, as revealed by Premier Balfour's state ments in parliament yesterday, have re- suited in bringing out in the press this morning stronger expressions than ever of the desire to reach some pacific set tlement of the difficulty.
 It is said on behalf of the government that even last July when German cooper ation was first mooted, the British gov ernment fully recognized the possibility of war with Venezuela, and only post poned action until the winter at the sug- gestion of the admirality, and in order to avoid the unhealthy season. On the other hand, those who declare that the government of the United States forced the government of Great Britain into virtual declaration of war are not lack ing. Certainly a considerable portion of the British house was rather disagreeably surprised to find that Great Britain act ually was at war; and that this war might last for many months to come, require the presence of large naval force In the Venezuelan waters and put a stop to all Brirsh trade with Venezuela. Added to this is the apprehension as to whether or not Germany would be willing to ae- cept the status of belligerent blockade, which would entail the stoppage of her trade also.
 Heely Norman M. P. in a newspaper article, published this morning, in which he emphasizes the dangers of the posi- tion into which Germany is dragging Great Britain, contends that the only safe and dignihed course for Great Britain, Is to seek satisfaction through cooperation with the United States. MT. Norman asserts that serious and urgent warnings, private in their origin, but vir- tually official in their destination, have been cabled from the United States dur ing the last few days"
 Reflects Widespread Feeling.
 MT. Norman's opinion reflects a very widespread feeling with regard to the Anglo-G German agreement, and concern ing the question of how the United States would view the existence of a state of warfare between the powers and Vene zuea. The newspapers this morning asks: ''What would happen should Ger many choose to seize Marta Island as l base for the blockade?'
 The Daily News in an editorial article roundly declares that the new European concert lis not to coerce a bankrupt re- public, but is a revolt against the Mon roe doctrine"
 The education bill having passed all it's stages yesterday, parliament will be prorogued today. Consequently, no in formation concerning Venezuela will be gathered from the ministers except as parliamentary papers are occasionally issued.
 A dispatch to the Daily Telegraph from The Hague says that all rumors that Holland is acting against Venezuela are at least premature. The Dutch govern ment intends to remain strictly neutral in the matter.
 A dispatch to the Daily Mail from Willenstad, Curacao, dated December IT, says the Venezuelan rebels are ap- 1 proaching Valencia. The population of l Caracas is urging President Castro to re- sign. It is rumored in Willemstad, says the correspondent. that the President is hiding.
 It is reported that British marines have landed at Ciudad Bolivar, on the Orinico.