French Ministers, it appears, are beginning to concern themselves with
preparations for the visit of King George and Queen Elizabeth to Paris next month. They will be under no temptation, I hope, to try to emulate the recent celebrations in Rome. Such things may befit dictators. They certainly do not befit democracies. No Englishman—least of all, it is safe to say, the King and Queen—would desire to see France pouring out money as Italy poured it out for Herr Hitler. Simplicity goes much better with warmth of heart than ostentation, and the sincerity of the French people's welcome will gain nothing from ornate display. The Italian elaboration received a fitting comment in a message from the Rome correspondent of The Daily Mail (of all papers), who wrote with singular candour, " it would be futile to insist that there is any popular feeling of satisfaction over his [Herr Hitler's] visit," adding, with equal pertinence, that in Italy " popular sentiment has no political importance."
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