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Joseph H. Choate as American Ambassador to England did much to promote friendly relations between the two countries. It is appropriate therefore that a memorial for him should take the form of a scholarship for English students at the University.
At first glance the foundation of a fellowship whereby a single English student may study at the University may not seem to be of much importance. Yet, if the educated classes of England and the United States hold aloof from one another, the chance for the real international friendship which comes of long acquaintance will be small indeed. It took the actual comradeship of the front line trenches, stripping away social mannerisms and prejudices, to teach the American soldier in France to like and respect the Briton. Unfortunately, it is impossible to stage a war very frequently to promote international good-will. But, if we remain dependent upon newspapers, history books, and casual tourists for our knowledge of foreign countries, the chances for mutual understanding will not be increased.
It is not possible for the bulk of our nation to gain first hand knowledge of other lands. Therefore, it is the duty of people of education to enlighten themselves sufficiently to be intelligent leaders. Many people have an unfortunate conception of England as the tyrants that fought us a hundred years ago, as a greedy race of commercial rivals, and as a cruel despotism that refuses to "free" India and Ireland.
John Harvard, almost three hundred years ago, made it possible to found education in America. Today, someone is needed to found an education in international understanding. The spirit of Mr. Choate's work can be perpetuated in no better manner than by bringing together, in any way possible the students of new Cambridge and old Cambridge.
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