ASPECTS OF AUSTRIA
[To the Editor of THE SPECTATOR.]
SIR,—Having just returned from a holiday in Tyrol the articles on the silbject of Self-conscious Austria in the last issue of The Spectator are of peculiar interest. Undoubtedly the Italian theft of South Tyrol still rankles, but it is the subsequent. mirage suppression of the language, culture and economic interests of the German-speaking inhabitants which is the main cause of the intense bitterness so prevalent on both sides of the Brenner. It is evident that the rising prices and expand- ing markets, which have caught the totalitarian States short of materials, have improved Austria's economic position, and have enabled her to move slowly towards the edge of the Rome- Berlin " field of force." - She is, however, by no means out of danger, for there does not appear' to be any general internal agreement as to her political destination, but on the whole a spirit of cautious optimism can be deteCted. Should-the democratic Powers be able and willing to help in advancing Austria's economic deVelcipment it is bound to increase her political stability, to the Ultiinate benefit of all the Danubian Provinces and the world at large. The tourist traffic is by no means a negligible 'item in her finances, and we can help her in a qrnall way, hoth financially and morally, 'by spending our holidays there and trying to show that we -take a sympathetic interest in her problems. Transport and luxuries are rather expensive, but simple' living is both good and cheap,' whilst hospitality, kindness and consideration are universal-.-4' am, Sir, yours, &c,
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