January 11, 1918 - Winston Churchill speaks to American Luncheon Club

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Don Martin diary entry for Friday, January 11, 1918:

Went to luncheon of the American Luncheon Club at the Savoy, as guest of Mr. Underwood of N.Y. Winston Churchill made speech saying that winning of war depends on America, who must act quickly. [Viscount] Northcliffe [British publishing magnate], Ambassador [Walter] Page [U.S. Ambassador to Great Britain], Admiral Simms [Commander of U.S. Naval Forces in Europe] and a lot of other distinguished men were present.

Winston Churchill, Minister of Munitions,
17 July 1917 - 10 Jan 1919

Later went to the War office and saw Sir Edward Carson [Member of War Cabinet; Irish politician] who says he doubts if the League of Nations dream can ever be realized. Had dinner at Simpson’s. Then went to Fleet St. after getting ready a letter to Mr. Bennett telling him what I think ought to be done here.

Am amazed at the pessimism everywhere regarding the outcome of the war. Everyone now seems to think that the Allies have their hardest fighting ahead to whip Germany and may not do so. America has a different notion of things than we have here but no information can get by censor.

Weather fair but cool.

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