SAADA

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Post Tack 676 Stockholm (Sweden) Oct. 14. 1918 My dear Brooks, You will be agreeably surprised to hear from me after such a long time. I have not been in a position to write to you, as I was practically interned in Germany during the last three years and could not correspond with my friends. I managed to get out of that absurd country last week, but I still find myself in a difficult situation here. I have suffered & learned & thought much since I wrote to you from Switzerland in 1914, & I may say that sorrow & wisdom have grown in me like twin-sisters. Of course, the world tragedy of the war must play a part in every man's moral & intellectual development. I shall write in four short essays on war-themes during this winter, among others a pamphlet to be entitled, "Forty-four months in Germany", in which the real psychological basis of German Imperialism & Junker?? will be discussed. I have been in touch with the most influential men of Germany for some time, & know that German ambition, greediness & belief in Force constitute a serious menace to Europe & Asia. Germany must be taught that her dreams of "World Power" cannot be realized so that she may direct her colossal energies ?? more fruitful channels. It is a vigorous & capable people, but the Junker class has infected the whole country with its Pan-Germanic mania. I rejoice to see that American ?? will most probably succeed in humbling this Prussian oligarchy, & ridding Germany & the world of this hotbed of militarism & chauvinism. I am not one of those who long for an early peace. The war may last some time, but Prussian & Austrian imperialism must be abolished, along with the medieval dynasties of the Hohenzollerns & the Hapsburgs, if possible. Now that U.S.A. has put its hand to the work, let it be done thoroughly. The events & experiences of the war have also led me to modify my political opinions in some respect. I think that the British Empire in Asia & Africa is after all a necessary institution, as those peoples cannot defend themselves against German, Turkish & Mahomedian invaders without the help of British officers & soldiers. In my opinion, the dissolution of the British Empire in Asia would be a great calamity, as it would not result in the establishment of independent Nation-States, but only in a change of masters. The Germans, the half-civilized hordes of Kurds & Turks would overrun India & other weak countries, if we were left to look after ourselves. I have therefore come to the conclusion that the nations, which now form part of the British Empire, should try to secure Home Rule within the Empire & should cooperate with England for the Defence of their countries. English administrative genius has built up a fabric, which should be improved & developed, but not overthrown. That is my view now. What do you think? Of course, you can't judge so well as I can, for I have seen the Germans at work in Turkey, & I know that we don't want any Germans east of the Suez Canal. The German flood must be dammed in the Balkans, if the Orient is to be saved. The Germans are hated in Asia, wherever they have shown themselves during the war. That is a remarkable phenomenon. Have you written any new books? Please let me have them. I have employed my time in Germany in writing a few essays on the philosophy of Rationalism & learning Greek. At present I am not doing much on account of nervous trouble in the eyes. How is little Charles? He must be quite a big boy now. Please remember me to Mrs. Brooks & tell her that I often think of the happy days, when I enjoyed her hospitality in Palo Alto. I hope you will write to me at your very earliest convenience. Yours affectionately Har Dayal Post Tack 676 Stockholm