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[Earl of Crawford]

Dictated

7, Audley Square, W.1.

5th February 1936.

Dear John,

As we look back upon the events of the last fortnight, we
realise how well matters have worked out. In the first place, how
merciful was the fact that the King did not suffer in his last illness,
or, indeed, that that illness should have been prolonged, to the
increasing distress of himself and of the Nation. The funeral likewise
was not unduly delayed, and mourning therefore was not overwhelmed by
pageant. There was a happy balance of ceremonial and of homeliness.
Protocol was allied with informality, and the result was a tremendous
and lasting impression of affection as well as homage. We hear that
foreigners were moved by the demonstraiton of national sympathy and
grief. We likewise were touched by the universality of the condolences
reaching us from every corner of the world;- though Ireland stood out
with a very mean and trumpery sulkiness, thus missing a really great
chance, because England is quite ready to be sympathetic - J.H. Thomas,
who had somehow dug in his heels, being no longer in charge of negotiations.
But the dull fellows in Dublin miss every opportunity which
presents itself. They say the Italians were well pleased with the cordiality
of reception shown to their Crown Prince, and that France is
still smiling at the President of the Republic being made to trudge 5
miles through muddy streets.

The Duke of Norfolk seems to stand out as a very successful
actor in all these proceedings - calm and collected, and controlling