14 JUNE 1940, Page 5

The lapse of time makes a distressing mess of considered

judgements in these days. I received this week the latest—I assume it to be the latest—of the European Letters issued by Count Coudenhove-Kalergi in connexion with his organisation Pan-Europa, dated May 1st. Its theme, argued with force and spirit, is the naval battle fought by the British Fleet in the Katte- gat in April. " It is quite possible " (Count Coudenhove-Kalergi does not hesitate to affirm), " that we shall some day rank it with the five great naval victories that decided the fate of Europe since classical days : Salamis, Actium, Lepanto, the destruction of the Armada and Trafalgar." The reasons for such a verdict are set forth in detail. I have not the space to specify them—or the heart. * *