Foot credits the Donovan-Stephenson friendship with inducing Roosevelt, in the autumn of 1940, to bring about the famous deal which resulted in the United States handing over to Britain destroyers in exchange for bases. Americans, never afflicted with meanness of spirit, have not 'applauded assassins of Stephenson's character. Stephenson's New York appointment irritated the hierarchy of the British secret service. I believe it continues to upset some of those who attacked him. Although fully aware that a stroke had marred his old age, they stamped on his grave.
Perceptive historians have a sure indication of their insensitivity.
They have defeated not Stephenson, but themselves. Posterity is the crucible from which gold emerges. So can his foes. And it will prevail. The Quiet Canadian - The Secret Service Story of Sir William Stephenson by H. Montgomery Hyde.