Page:Englishwomaninan00elli.pdf/189

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"Do you think that the Conference will produce good results?"

"Eventually there can be no doubt that, however heated and however prolonged the discussions, it will bring peace. Unfortunately, we cannot wait for ever: The Powers should recognise now, what they must ultimately admit, that we could not accept terms which would deny us that liberty for which we have sacrificed so much and fought with such stern resolve.

"For every reason, we desire peace; a settlement that will enable us to get on with the vital work of reconstruction. Details must take time, but the essential question should have been arranged before this."

"The papers accuse Angora of arrogance and zenophobia," I reminded him.

"The charge is invented for propaganda. Is it arrogant to stand out for our just and logical rights ? Of 'zenophobia' I know nothing! My whole life, in every action, is proof that I do not hate Europe. I never fought for hate, but to save the truth. The same inspiration guides and controls our politics.

"I could never myself keep on hating a nation for the mistakes of its Government. I fought against the Bulgarians, who are my greatest friends to-day.

"And towards the Greeks I feel the same. I am confident that we shall soon be great friends, friends as we were before the Powers intervened. As they were led away by false flatterers, they will be the first to see their mistake and repent."

"Have you banished the Christians, or are they leaving Anatolia in mere panic?"

"We have taken no steps in this matter, but left them absolutely free, to go or stay. They have been terrified by propaganda, largely American, directed by religious animosities. While they followed the Greek army in thousands, and are still flying, many others are coming back. To-day you can see two long streams of refugees among us, one leaving, the other returning. They know that all Christians, whether