It is true that American thought is at least disinterested in matters which seem to relate to territorial acquisitions, but when wolves are about the shepherd mustguard his flock, even if he does not himself care for mutton.

These gentlemen of the press were listening carefully to every word you said-all eagerly anxious for a tiny morsel of cheese which they could publish. And you go and give them a whole ruddy Stilton!

It is only the continuance of the war and the extraordinary conditions which it imposes and forces upon us all that justifies us in remaining together as a Parliament. I certainly could not take the responsibility of making far-reaching controversial changes which I am not convinced are directly needed for the war effort, without a Parliament refreshed by contact with the electorate.

Normally I wake up buoyant to face the new day. Then [summer 1940] I awoke with dread in my heart.

Since 1911 much more than a quarter of a century had passed, and still mortal peril threatened us at the hands of the same nation.....once again we must fight for life and honour against all the might and fury of the valiant, disciplined, and ruthless German race. Once again! So be it.

The world on the verge of its catastrophe was very brilliant. Nations and Empires crowned with princes and potentates rose majestically on every side, lapped in theaccumulated treasures of the long peace. All were fitted and fastened-it seemed securely-into an immense cantilever.