6 JANUARY 1939, Page 19

It is an engaging theory, but not one which is

tenable. It ignores Lord Chesterfield on the one hand, and on the other the Duke of Wellington. Yet as a theme for conver- sation, it has its points. Being a sentimentalist in such matters, I prefer Count Coudenhove-Kalergi's flattering assumptions ; and to repeat to myself those lovely Attic words—those words which echo as what ought to be the names of Hellenic battleships :—Sophrosune, Megaloprepeia, Praotes, Dikaiosune and Philia tis ; temperance, magnificence, good-temper, justice and a certain kindliness.