But we must be just and firm and preserve our own self-respect and keep alive the fear that other nations have of us; and we ought to have the courage to make the Department of State more than a bureau of complaints.

We must learn to say "No" even to a Gawdamighty independent American citizen when he asks an improper or impracticable question.

Public Opinion in the United States consists of something more than the threats of Congressmen and the bleating of newspapers; it consists of the judgment of honourable men on courageous and frank actions--a judgment that cannot be made up till action is taken.
Heartily yours, W.H.P.
_To Edward M.House_ American Embassy, London, Sept.

8, 1915.
(This is not prudent.

It is only true--nothing more.) DEAR HOUSE: I take it for granted that Dumba[4] is going, of course.