[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.] Sre,—On all sides one
meets with criticism of the American position on the Debts problem. Why is America so un- relenting ? Has America become impervious to broad- minded appeals ? The answer is : America has not changed —the situation has altered. From the beginning the sole actuating motive of America's attitude toward the European embroilment was the advancement of peace. The cause of Peace made America enter the War, the cause of Peace is with her still the dominant consideration. More strongly than ever I cling to the conviction that if America had been earnestly and properly. approached, when the nations laid down their arms, and a breath of relief ran through all mankind, America would have readily consented, as an integral part of her military assistance, to a cancellation of the debts ; or, at least to a scaling down to a nominal figure. " Sanctity of obliga- tions " would have been swallowed up in the wave of plain humanitarian generosity. Unfortunately, France, at the time and for a considerable period after, did not countenance a spirit of magnanimity.
Then America would have waived her claims, to pave the way to a lasting Peace. Now America insists upon her claims for the same reason. There is consistency also in reversal. To forgive at this stage, after a protracted interval of dis- regard, would no longer be even generous, still less be conducive to Peace. Forgiveness, too, has its time and place.
I admit that America's attitude partakes of condescension.
But for that the nations of Europe have only themselves to blame. To no small extent, this predicament arose from the fact that England has failed to live up to her historic role of international mediator. England was forgetful of her tra- ditional part during the conduct of the War, still more so at the Peace table ; and then again when she made an independent Debt Settlement ; and finally when Mr. Churchill met M. Caillaux. Infinitely better would it have been if the French Debt Commission had proceeded to America first, with England remaining in the background as a moderating influ- ence. No such misgivings would then have arisen in America. Moreover, the American negotiations should have followed the proposed conferences on the Security Pact.
America needs to be shown something tangible in the way of Peace assurance, before an effective appeal can be made. Thus believing, I make bold to advance the prediction that, as matters now stand, not until the Peace Treaties shall be revised, and purged from all elements of revenge, will America whole-heartedly fall into line. I feel confident that America will not be found wanting in the end. I know my America.
Here is where the League of Nations has its greatest oppor- tunity to place itself upon a solid basis ; and, yes, to prove its raison d'être. The day will come when America's attitude will again be extolled—then for its present severity.—I am, [If the United States would come into the League it would be far easier for us to attain our genuine desire, viz., to co-operate in the advance of a really peaceful spirit in the world.—En. Spectator.]
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