Page:Paul Samuel Reinsch - Secret Diplomacy, How Far Can It Be Eliminated? - 1922.djvu/220



influence for making that principle a part of the universal public law. No international engage- ment shall be binding unless ratified by a repre- sentative body, and published to all the nations. Otherwise it shall be absolutely void, and shall not give rise to any rights or obligations; in fact, an attempt to make an agreement contrary to these conditions shall be considered an act hostile to the peace of the world. That should be the recognized law.

Nothing shows so clearly how human develop- ment has halted at this point, as the fact that it should still require an argument to show the ne- cessity of publicity and lawfulness with respect to the most essential interests of the vast popula- tions that make up the international family.

The record and constant practice of the United States, as well as her great actual and potential power, fit her above all others to be a leader in the establishment of this principle. The Amer- ican nation possesses a great moral capital in the confidence and trust that the peoples of the world repose in it. No matter if unsympathetic chan- ceries should plot to prevent America from mak- ing her influence felt in the affairs of the world, no matter how European diplomacy may occa- sionally sneer at American idealism, the peoples