The Balkans at the end of the 19th century were - then as now - a focus for the bigger European powers. As the grip of the Turkish Ottoman Empire - 'the sick man of Europe' - on the Balkans loosened, the newly emerging nations such as Roumania - positioned between Turkey and Russia - became more important. This importance was born out in the world wars when Roumania fought ( and lost) twice. This report by a British military observer, gives a snapshot of the country, its military geography, and the organisation and distribution of its army - both standing and territorial. There are chapters on the officer corps, uniforms, pay, Education, drill and discipline and the Roumanian navy, together with a large map of the kingdom.