Six,—We all want a permanent peace in Europe, and there
can be no Peace until the _Nazi-regime has ceased to function. I have had first- hand experience of the persecution of Germans and German Jews, and "an of my friends have been killed. But history has shown us that violent methods only afford temporary security, and can never solve the peace problem permanently. The Germans are too strong and virile
for indefinite repression. Excessive humiliation would unite them in a spirit of vengeance and hatred against those responsible for their misery. Present agreement between World-Powers cannot be guaranteed for all time. In a future conflict even an unarmed Germany might throw her • weight into the scales with a view to recapturing her lost position. Are we to punish boys and girls who have been taught Nazi-ism from their cradles? Should they not be re-educated? Could not the German people be Christianised rather than subjugated?
We believe that Christianity is the only solution for the European problem,—indeed, for the problems of the whole world. It must be made possible for the foreign policy of a new Germany to be one of sincere collaboration with all nations. We need a new revelation of the demands of Christ, so that we can link up with the Christians inside Germany whose faith has been deepened under persecution. The Christian conduct of the Allies will enable us to join forces with them and help them to win the country for the ideals for which we stand. We desire not only a political, but a spiritual peace. Could not we give the German people to understand that the United Nations do not intend to enslave them, but to liberate them from Nazi-tyranny?
I know that this letter will meet with response from my own country- men, from our Allies and from a great number of Germans. Religious and social work in Germany brought me into touch with hundreds of people, representing every class, profession and school of thought. I remained there until a few days before the declaration of war. It is impossible to explain the conflicting loyalties and confusion in the minds of those who are surrounded by disillusionment, fear and suffering. I share these convictions with many others. British, American, Dutch, Swiss and German Christians have helped me to express our desire
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