THE DANGERS OF THE NEW DIPLOMACY
[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.] SIR,—I found most provocative the article by Sir Rennet( Rodd entitled " The Dangers of the New Diplomacy," in your issue of December 20th. Whilst according to your contributor the respect to which his distinguished record, wide experience and undoubted ability entitle him, I feel
emboldened to take up the cudgels on behalf of the method of " diplomacy by conference " which he decries as unsatis- factory. He says : " No longer is the fate of nations decided by intrigues and drawing-room influences." Surely every thinking man and woman will agree that this is a good thing
I submit that the system of diplomacy by open conference is 'the only sane, natural and lasting method of negotiation. It was born in the dim red dawn of history when the first tribes of primitive men ceased to war upon each other and the leaders met to talk things over round the camp fire. Families, communities, nations and States evolved under its aegis. And since the greatest catastrophe that history chronicles shook up the peoples of Europe during 1914-1918, the leaders of countries came to realize that open conference was the only way, and so we have the League of Nations.
Surely now, more than ever, is the time to give the nations of the world encouragement to persevere with the method they have adopted. Secrecy savours of mistrust, and mistrust breeds strife.—I am, Sir, &c.,
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