CHAPTER IX

THE CRUCIBLE OF WAR

The objects of this book 421 Criticism of naval and military strategy is no part of its purpose 422 Nor the ultimate political settlement of Europe 424 Nor an inquisition into 'German atrocities' 424 But the basis of Germany's policy must be understood 425 And what we are fighting for and against 425 The causes of German strength 427 The causes of British weakness 427 Illusions as to the progress of the war 428 The real cause of our going to war 430 Democracy is not by its nature invincible 431 Leadership is our chief need 433 The folly of telling half-truths to the People 435