NON-FRATERNISATION .
Snt,—May I endorse " Janus's " conclusions on fraterhisation in your issue of June 1st, and, at the same time, question whether he is right in assuming that the soldier in Germany is "dead against non-fraternisa- tion"? It is, of course, impossible to generalise accurately about the collectiVe opiniern of several hundred thousand men with no opportunity el testing their views comprehensively. Certainly, those who are " dead against non-fraternisation" have been vocal, and their opinion has been publicised by the Press. On the other hand, the limited exprerimice of at least one observer is that there are many in favour of the present policy, and an even larger number who, without expressing any final conviction, realise that we are faced with an extremely tricky problem which can only be solved in a spirit of forbearance and co-operation.
Fraternisation based on mutual understanding and respect may eventu- ally contribute to the spiritual rebirth of Germany and the peace of the world ; but fraternisation actuated on the one side by an impatient demand for social amenities, and, on the other, by a desire merely to placate the conquerors, can only lead to misunderstandings and ultimate disaster. The true basis does not yet exist. The invalidating gap is not any distinction of guilt between the individual Englishman and the individual German, but rather the fact. that we, on the whole, accept our share of responsibility for the catastrophe, while the Germans do not. To cover this profound difference with a blanket of " bonhomie " would be like bandaging a still septic wound.
If even a chance is to be preserved of re-creating true understanding and goodwill, we must show patience and selflessness. The time will come, but just now " the faith and the love and the hope are all in the
Previous page
