The Birmingham age-herald., 1921-06-19

ally will make the most of the easil.i inflammable state of popular senti- ment against the Germans The ad- versaries of Briand will get power full support from London, where the prospect of Franco German polit- ical and economic entente is most dsquieting, since it would destroy the keystone of traditional Britisii policy in Europe, namely, the even balancing of rival groups of powers
 Rash to Predict
 With such forces against him It would be rash to predict success for M Briand's undertaking. Neverthe- less, London is betraying consider able uneasiness. Two evidences of this are particularly striking. The first is the agitation In England for an alliance with France. The second is the hearty reception given to d Washington dispatch in the London Times In which the correspondent of that paper gives assurance that President Hardng's basic foreign policy Is to be a worldwide entente among the English speaking peoples.
 France exhibits decided coolness toward the talk of an alliance with Britain. As to the second, while un- questionably English popular senti- nent favors understanding with America, there are statesmen who consider it possible except upon the condition that England shall retair. control of the seas.
 If this suggestion as to the Hard ing policy, which after all Is noth-
 ing more as yet than deductions based upon accumulated words and acts, is encouraged by British of ficialdom, it must not be forgottel that not only are Franco British re- lations in a precarious state, but that the Anglo Japanese treaty is now up for renewal.
 A British American filtration can- not fail to impress Japan. The Brit ish negotlators now are insisting upon writing new clauses into the Japanese treaty, giving Great Brit ain much more of lions share of the bargain. and it is safe to predict that until Japa1's signature is on the dotted line talk In England of a worldwide understanding with America will persist.
 AnGIo-Americnn Unity
 This is, not intended to discount the sincerity of such talk, but in- formed persons regarding the obsta- cles to Anglo American unity. par ticularly as regards sea power as far too formidable to be brushed aside with a few well meaning words.
 As matter of plain fact. British policy is floundering. The cabinet Itself is not a unit on any of the major question confronting it.
 Meantime tho most comfortable position in Europe is held by Ger many Both France and England appear to be counting her ardently. using all the arts of devoted and jealous lovers.
 To the long maintained British charge that France was vengeful, spiteful and harsh toward Germany A French paper now retorts by showing that 1t was England which ruined Germany by taking her col onies and her ships and therefore the Germans should feel much less hostile toward the French than the British.
 There is a conviction in Frencl, governmental circles that q Franco German understanding, putting an md to the rivalry which has divided he continent for century, would ind hearty approval in America.
 Premier Briand Is making a bold stroke in undertaking such a nego .iation, but if he should get the support he expects, his po- 'ition would be strong one.