It may seem feeble to wish that events may be
speedily. forgotten in the interests of peace rather than of historical truth. Such things, for example, were done seven years ago in the Ruhr Valley, parts of the Rhineland and the Bavarian Pfalz. They left a blot on European civilization and bitter hatred. If they are to be recalled, it is well that they should be set down in permanent form by Mr. G. E. R. Gedye, who took a fine part in first exposing them. The Revolver RepubliV (Arroasrnith, 10s. 6d.) is, of course, the Rhenish Republic which the French vainly tried to establish by the use of abominable methods and tools : several chapters are given to the invasion of the Ruhr Valley. The passion aroused by the sight of cruelty and injustice . was entirely to Mr. Gedye's credit. Now, however, he might have been judicial enough to mention (not to excuse) the underlying motive—fear. The phlegmatic British could hate the Boches heartily from 1914 to 1018 without hating or fearing them before or after. Another nation used to be called our hereditary enemy : to France Germany is the hereditary enemy who inspires fear and who must be damaged on any occasion. Besides, Don't kick a man when he is down " seems to most Latins a quite illogical precept, if you want to kick him. We also believe that the blame here laid upon M. Paul Tirard should be limited to blaming a French official for never disobeying instructions (or resigning) when he disapproves of them. Mr. Gedye has, with the merits and faults of a journalist, made a true story
as exciting as any fiction. * * * • *
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