FAREWELL TO ARMS

A decade ago the United States assumed the initiative in the limitation of naval armaments when President Harding invited the leading powers to the Washington Naval Conference. Much constructive work was accomplished. Since that time it has been a bone of contention among some experts as to the lasting benefits acquired from the conference. Perhaps its proximity to the war blinded an opportunity for the permanent success of the project.

Today America's delegates sail for the London Conference. According to President Hoover, who is largely responsible for the existence of the new parley, a definite slash in the seafaring implements of war is desired, rather than the negative restraint of limitation alone. The diplomatic rigmarole of another generation is to be the first contribution to the scrap-heap. In the second attempt of which America is a main instigator, civilization is sanguine of one more affirmation of the futility, of war.