It was just one more expression of that strangely discreditable yet almost universal failing,--the over-reliance upon others.

The quiet remark of the man who suddenly saw fit to join in the discussion struck a chilling and a disturbing note.
"There is one thing which could end the war at any moment," Mr.Stenson said, leaning a little forward, "and that is the will of the people." There was perplexity as well as discomfiture in the minds of his hearers.
"The people ?" Lord Shervinton repeated.

"But surely the people speak through the mouths of their rulers ?" "They have been content to, up to the present," the Prime Minister agreed, "but Europe may still see strange and dramatic events before many years are out." "Do go on, please," the Countess begged.
Mr.Stenson shook his head.
"Even as a private individual I have said more than I intended," he replied.

"I have only one thing to say about the war in public, and that is that we are winning, that we must win, that our national existence depends upon winning, and that we shall go on until we do win.

The obstacles between us and victory, which may remain in our minds, are not to be spoken of." There was a brief and somewhat uncomfortable pause.