Berne, May 17. The Swiss General Staff announced today that in reply to the anxiety created throughout the country by events in Europe during the past few days, especially the massive use of parachutists in the war, the Swiss population may rest assured that the High Command is organizing an efficient internal defence.
A great number of military detachments, several of which are motorized, are keeping a watch throughout the country ready to intervene at a moment's notice. All strategic points are being closely guarded.
"The General Staff asked everyone to remain calm and confident.
The two German airmen who fled on Thursday night following the M. Reynaud was interrupted repeatedly by loud cheering and, as a sign of confidence, the deputies decided to adjourn without further debate, expressing their willingness to meet again whenever the Premier deemed it necessary.
"I have only a few words to tell you," M. Reynaud said in his address. "Since the Chamber adjourned the last time, Germany has decided to play her trump card. She attacked three free nations and today is pointing a weapon at the heart of France.
The Belgium of 1914 reappeared, and her life will be closely linked with ours. Our sufferings will be her sufferings and her bereavement will be ours, One day our joy will be hers,
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.