News

After Court Restores Research Funding, Trump Still Has Paths to Target Harvard

News

‘Honestly, I’m Fine with It’: Eliot Residents Settle In to the Inn as Renovations Begin

News

He Represented Paul Toner. Now, He’s the Fundraising Frontrunner in Cambridge’s Municipal Elections.

News

Harvard College Laundry Prices Increase by 25 Cents

News

DOJ Sues Boston and Mayor Michelle Wu ’07 Over Sanctuary City Policy

LEAGUE A MEANS OF GETTING TOGETHER, ASSERTS WALPOLE

British Novelist Thinks Americans Are Wrapped Up in Local Politics.

NO WRITER ATTRIBUTED

"The League of Nations is essential for the future peace and safety of the world," said Hugh Walpole when asked his opinion concerning that bitterly contested undertaking. "As it now stands it has many flaws in it, I admit. But then every great experiment is never first presented in its final, polished form.

"The general opinion among Americans seems to be that the League is something permanent; something that cannot be revoked, and for that reason they shun it; they consider it something terrible. Were the League this permanent affair that seems to be generally supposed, it truly would be well to hesitate before joining it. But it isn't. I don't aspire to be a politician, but in my travels I have received some impressions that I hope are correct; and these are that this League is not an irrevocable compact, but a means of getting together, of discussing and trying to answer some of the great questions that concern the safety of the whole world. And as the League of Nations is the best solution for this, it must come.

"Perhaps my opinion of the average American's attitude on this question may be altered somewhat," said Mr. Walpole in commenting on his impressions while visiting this country. "As I have travelled through this country, the outstanding impression which I have received is the self centred attitude of the population. They are wrapped up in their local politics; they are interested almost exclusively in their local affairs and don't seem to be concerned with or even appreciate international conditions which to me appear vitally necessary.

"Take the case of Russia. People here are seldom more than remotely interested in that country. But I believe that whatever way Russia goes the future life of the world is going to be affected accordingly."

Want to keep up with breaking news? Subscribe to our email newsletter.

Tags