come here to abuse the hospitality of the host, and to spend his energies solely

in trying to sow discontent and suspicion. Such persons are not only socially

repugnant, in the climate of our present day they are extremely dangerous." He

paused again and once more there was utter stillness. M. Dupont went on in a

calm, deliberate voice: "My only question concerning Mr Lewis is this. To what

extent does his abominable behaviour exemplify the attitude of the present

American administration? Ladies and gentlemen, let me myself hazard a guess as

to the answer, for such a gentleman capable of the levels of deceit he has

displayed over these past days should not be relied upon to provide a truthful

reply. So, I will hazard my guess. Of course, America is concerned about our

debt payments to her in the event of a freeze in German reparations. But I have

over the last six months had occasion to discuss this very matter with a number

of very highly placed Americans, and it seems to me that thinking in that

country is much more far-sighted than that represented by their countryman here.

All those of us who care for the future well-being of Europe will take comfort

from the fact that Mr Lewis is now - how shall we put it? - hardly the influence

he once was. Perhaps you think me unduly harsh to express these things so

openly. But the reality is, ladies and gentlemen, I am being merciful. You see,

I refrain from outlining just what this gentleman has been saying to me - about

you al1. And with a most clumsy technique, the audacity and crudeness of which I

could hardly believe. But enough of condemnations. It is time for us to thank.

Join me then, please, ladies and gentlemen, in raising your glasses to Lord

Darlington."

 

M. Dupont had not once looked over in Mr Lewis's direction during the course of