In the first place, he was a foremost believer in the view of German psychology that the German understands and can understand nothing but intimidation, that he is without generosity or remorse in negotiation, that there is no advantage be will not take of you, and no extent to which he will not demean himself for profit, that he is without honor, pride, or mercy.

Therefore you must never negotiate with a German or conciliate him; you must dictate to him.

On no other terms will he respect you, or will you prevent him from cheating you.
But it is doubtful how far he thought these characteristics peculiar to Germany, or whether his candid view of some other nations was fundamentally different.

His philosophy had, therefore, no place for "sentimentality" in international relations.

Nations are real things, of whom you love one and feel for the rest indifference--or hatred.