An event of great importance in America is the retire-
ment of Mr. Hughes, who for four years has been re- sponsible for American foreign policy. He has been able and firm, but he has also been cautious. He never went ahead of public opinion, and often, with his shrewd preference for the safe course, he lagged behind it. His principles were so well known that one could almost predict with certainty what he would do in any given circumstances. He was perfectly consistent, perfectly courteous, perfectly honourable. But it is evident that his resignation signifies a change in American foreign policy. In spite of Mr. Hughes' general doctrine of aloof- ness, America is being gradually and inevitably drawn into the European current. Mr. Borah, who counsels closer dealings with Europe, increases his influence over President Coolidge. After all, the modern world is too nearly a unity for America to stand apart. The Paris, Conference has proved that. America has come back: Mr. Hughes is succeeded by Mr. Kellogg, whom English.' men will be very sorry to see no more as Ambassador' in London. It is thought that the new American Ambassador here will be Mr. Houghton, now Ambassador in Berlin—a-cultivated and popular business• man. •
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