The Belgian publication is notable also in that it records
what is perhaps the most satisfactory snub in diplomatic history. It will be remembered that on October 13th, 1937, the German Ambassador in Brussels. under instructions from his Government, handed to the Belgian Foreign Secretary a note in which he assured him that " in no circumstances would Germany impair the inviolability and integrity of Belgium, and that she will at all times respect Belgian territory." At 5.17 on May loth the Luftwaffe appeared without warning over Brussels and flung bombs upon the Evere aerodrome and surrounding houses. An hour later the armoured division of Germany thundered across the Belgian frontier. -At 8.3o Int on the same day (three hours after the neutrality of Belgium had been violated) the German Ambassador called on the Belgian Foreign Minister and as he entered the room he drew a paper from his pocket. " I beg your pardon," said Monsieur Spank, " I will speak first." In a few chosen words he told the Ambassador exactly what he thought. When he bad finished the Ambassador again drew the paper from his pocket and began to read aloud the Note which Herr Hitler had instructed him to deliver. It informed the Belgian Government that unless they surrendered immediately the Government of the Reich would be " compelled to ensure Belgian neutrality by force of arms:" It was at this stage that Monsieur Spank delivered his historic snub. " Hand me the - document," be said " I should wish to spare you so painful a.task."
I envy Monsieur Spaak that moment.
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