5. how did france respond to the german/ austrian alliance?

The alliance formed by Germany and Austria was for protection from attack by Russia and France did not play any role in it.

Explanation:

In the year of 1879, an alliance was formed between Germany and Austria. The basic purpose of forming this alliance was to protect each other from any kind of attack from Russia on any of the two countries. France did not play any role in this alliance. But some years later, France formed an alliance with Russia to attack Germany.

to act quickly in times of danger to the united states

because you have to act quickly if you want to live/survive.