Ian Hay

“ CHAPTER VI A PAGE OF UNWRITTEN HISTORY In early 1917 America was full of Americans—even fuller than usual—for the simple reason that America was rated ‘neutral’ in a World War, and her citizens were mostly cooped up within their own borders.
Yet not quite all. Certain Americans, less diplomatic than their official leaders, had long since taken their own decision in the matter. Twenty-five thousand citizens of the United States were serving, at the risk of forfeiting their own cherished citizenship, under various Allied flags. Hundreds more were driving ambulances behind the Allied lines. ”

“ The New World had shrugged its shoulders and wondered how long presumably enlightened nations would continue to tolerate ‘the King business.’ Sides were taken to a certain extent, but at first mainly for purposes of academic debate. America as a whole cherished a sentimental affection for France, her ancient ally in her War of Independence. ”

“ In the West a body paradoxically known as the International ‘Workers’ of the World, inexplicably flush of cash, were calling upon Labour to labour no more until wars should cease. In the South negroes were being incited to the verge of a stampede by whispered suggestions of Equal Rights and a Black Republic. ”