Strong on Words, Weak on Will

Patriotism", wrote Dr. Johnson in the 18th century, "is the last refuge of a scoundrel." Make that "campaigner" today, and take a look at pre-election Germany. In the aftermath of Sept. 11, German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder pledged "unconditional solidarity" with the United States. Now, he is telling George W. Bush to count Germany out. "Under my leadership, this country won't participate in any adventures [against Iraq]," the Chancellor thundered. "We will go our own German way; we won't be roped in." Not even a U.N. mandate would make Berlin join the war.

What happened? Easy. Schröder has to face...