ABSTRACT
I am almost at the end of my tale. It has been a tale of facts and hopes and fears and I have told it with the desire to stir some readers of this book, at least, to more vigorous thought and action in defence of peace. Many will disagree with much that I have said, but even the fiercest disagreement is better than dull indifference and may kindle sparks of clearer understanding. Lethargy and conventionality of mind are insidious dangers, especially for politicians. Before the war Lord Haldane spoke truly, with special reference to international relations, of “the deadening effect of that conventional atmosphere out of which few men in public life succeed in completely escaping. We can best assist in the freshening of that atmosphere,” he continued, “by omitting no opportunity of trying to think rightly and thereby to contribute to the fashioning of a more hopeful and resolute kind of public opinion.” 1 We have a heavy task before us and heavy stones of tradition to roll aside from our path.
