a HOLES IN THE CHARTER "
Six,—There has recently been a lengthy correspondence in the Press, as you are doubtless aware, as to how Germany should be dealt with after the war. It has filled me with dismay, because it would be the height of ineptitude, on the eve of invasion, to declare our policy. In di .probability some rough outline was agreed at Teheran, but anything definite could surely only increase enemy resistance and simultaneously provide a wide' field for German propaganda after the war that the Allies had not fulfilled such-and-such a promise. Any attempt at a Declared formula, before unconditional surrender, would lead to strains and stresses among the Allies themselves. On February 22nd last the Prime Minister said in the House that there was no question of the Atlantic Charter applying to Germany as a matter of right and having Territorial adjustments in enemy countries. As he was one of the two responsible authors we may accept this with gratitude. Those who oppose this view appear to be once more playing the enemy's game. Why should two generations fight and die in vain to allow the fruits of victory to fall into the German lap?
The Atlantic Charter itself is perhaps the best precedent for refusing to indulge in premature declarations. When I had written thus far, I found and read your weighty leading article of March 3rd.
I can only add that any person 'or nation can declare and draft what may appear to be both ideal and watertight at the time, but
that subsequent circtimnances will develop holes into which too much ater will seep. This is the more likely to4lappen in the "crucible of war, and is the strongest Stgument against prematurity.—Yours
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