Chapter XXXVIII: Section 3: Belgium--Germany consents to the abrogation of the treaties

of 1839 by which Belgium was established as a neutral state, and agrees to any convention with which the allied and associated powers may determine to replace them.

Luxemburg--Germany renounces her various treaties and conventions with the grand duchy of Luxemburg, and recognizes that it ceased to be a part of the German zolverein from January 1,1919, and renounces all right of exploitation of the railroads.

Left Bank of the Rhine--Germany will not maintain any fortifications or armed forces less than fifty kilometers to the east of the Rhine, hold any maneuvers, nor within that limit maintain any works to facilitate mobilization. In case of violation she shall be regarded as committing a hostile act against the powers who sign the present treaty and as intending to disturb the peace of the world.

Alsace and Lorraine--The territories ceded to Germany by the treaty of Frankfort are restored to France with their frontiers as before 1871, to date from the signing of the armistice, and to be free of all public debts.

All public property and private property of German ex-sovereigns passes to France without payment or credit. France is substituted for Germany as regards ownership of the railroads and rights over concessions of tramways. The Rhine bridges pass to France, with the obligation for the upkeep.

Political condemnations during the war are null and void and the obligation to repay war fines is established as in other parts of allied territory.

The Saar--In compensation for the destruction of coal mines in northern France and as payment on account of reparation, Germany cedes to France full ownership of the coal mines of the Saar basin with the subsidiaries, accessories and facilities.

After fifteen years a plebiscite will be held by communes to ascertain the desires of the population as to continuance of the existing regime under the league of nations, union with France or union with Germany. The right to vote will belong to all inhabitants of over 20 years resident therein at the time of the signature.