REVIEWS OF RECENT BOOKS 203 



an equally broad mind and generous sympathies that he approaches 

 Asia, "whose problems reach down to the roots and touch the 

 tenderest fibres of our physical, political and spiritual life. From our 

 belief in God to our facility in the manufacture of gunpowder Asia 

 has been the world's teacher." An author who cherishes such a spirit 

 as is expressed in these words must have a worthy contribution to 

 make in dealing with the profound questions that concern the continent 

 of Asia. The book itself fully justifies the statement. 



Further in maintaining the rights of Asiatic countries he is not 

 forgetful of present political conditions and the benefits that other 

 countries have conferred on Asia. He says, "as to England's part in 

 Asia, he does not hesitate to say that . . . the firm hand of British 

 law and order has been an unquestionable boon ... It would be 

 impossible to conceive of a greater tragedy for India, for Asia, or 

 for the world, than any present weakening or the withdrawal of 

 British restraint from that ancient empire, which well repays friendly 

 American interest and absolutely requires that stabilizing force of 

 British sovereignty." 



With regard to the autKor's judgment on the action of Casement, 

 however, we think his view is biased — and may possibly have been 

 written as a sop to the Irish. He says "If Casement was a traitor, 

 why, so was Washington too." Most people regard Washington 

 as an honorable rebel : but Casement struck below the fifth rib, 

 struck at England, at France, at the world, at the cause of right, 

 when these were in great peril. The comparison is derogatory to 

 Washington's honour. 



This American seems to be on the most friendly feeling with 

 Japan. There is not a bitter word against that country in the whole 

 volume. Indeed it may be said that it contains a kind of apologia 

 for the people and their rulers. Whilst the iniquity of the 21 

 demands is not glossed over in any way, yet the Japanese cannot 

 be offended, since Japan has been her worst enemy in this diplomatic 

 blunder, and has given herself severe black eyes in the matter. 



Possibly to others than Americans an alternative title, such as 

 the "Drama of the Paris Conference" would be more attractive, and 

 lead them to read the book all the more readily. Once the reader 

 has begun there is no laying it down. It is a most absorbing book, 

 as fascinating as any novel. How could it be otherwise, dealing as 

 it does, in a most vivid way with a great epoch in the world's history : 

 Europe lying exhausted after the great war ; Monarchies in the dust ; 

 empires torn and devastated ; the hearts of most bereft of some kin 

 or dear friend. Hither to Paris came the reconstructors and healers 

 ' to make peace and to help Europe to start a new life. Great names 



