20 MARCH 1926, Page 3

Mr. Houghton, the American Ambassador in London, who is visiting

America, has been explaining to his countrymen the English habit of " grousing." He says that this is a national habit and that Englishmen actually take pleasure in painting the dark side. " They are always at it, but they draw the line when anyone else strikes in. It is a family privilege." He compared grousing with the American habit of chewing gum, and added : " It exercises the same muscles, is just about the same strain on the intellect, and it affords a certain amount of comfort." This explanation by the Ambas- sador was a preface to his pronouncement, for which we are grateful, that Great Britain is really doing quite well and will come through her troubles.