Note 106 — Chapter V

This Memorandum, which has been published in extenso by Mr. Baruch (op. cit., p. 29 seq.), belonged to the category of most secret documents. It has been given to the world by itself without the accompanying circumstances which, without justifying its arguments (on which indeed no further light could be thrown beyond what we already have in the narrative of Mr. Baruch), might yet throw light on individual motives. I agree with the comment made by The Economist (Oct. 22, 1921) in reviewing Vol. IV. of the History of the Peace Conference of Paris (published under the auspices of the Institute of International Affairs), which has reprinted this Memorandum, that “a very serious injustice will be done to the reputation of General Smuts if this document continues to be reproduced and circulated without any explanation of the circumstances in which it was prepared.” Nevertheless it is well that the world should have this document, and it must take its place in a story which is more important to the world than the motives and reputations of individual actors in it.