CZECHS BITTER

Evening Post, Volume CXXVI, Issue 80, 1 October 1938, Page 10

CZECHS BITTER

BETRAYAL BY FRANCE

REACTIONS TO SETTLEMENT

LIFTING OF.SHADOW

(United Press Association—By Electrio Telegraph—Copyright.) (Received October* 1, 2.30 p.m.)

LONDON, September 30. The Prague correspondent of the "Daily Telegraph" says it is impossible to convey the bitterness and despair with which Czechoslovakia learned of the terms of the agreement. To the bitterness of this humiliation was added resentment at the manner in which the agreement was carried out by the Powers who, it is felt, imposed Herr Hitler's will on Czechoslovakia.

It is learned irom official circles that Dr. Mastny, Czech Minister in Berlin, endeavoured to see the Anglo-French delegation before the final terms were drawn up, but they refused to see him. When everything was over Dr. Mastny was summoned into the presence of the Anglo-French delegation to learn the decisions. When Dr. Mastny said that he wished to make some observations he was told that the delegation did not wish to hear them.

The correspondent adds that although it is complained that Mr. Chamberlain played a clever hand against Czechoslovakia, the most b.'Uer loathing is reserved for France which, it is declared, was responsible for a betrayal unexampled in history.

Despite broadcast appeals for calm J the public in Prague displayed anger in the evening. Thousands of persons carrying national flags marched shouting "Rather death than peace with dishonour. We, demand that the people and the Government call on the soldiers. Let us fight." The Government ordered a black-out in the city, resulting in a return to calm. RELIEF GENERAL. Labour leaders were reluctant to comment on the Czech settlement, but the movement is generally relieved at the lifting of the war shadow. The Liberals share the relief, but feel misgivings for the future. French evening newspapers exult in the conclusion of the agreement and concede that the menace of world conflict has been laid aside. The Finnish Press declares that Mr. Chamberlain has restored Britain's prestige, which was damaged by Arabia and Abyssinia. Turkey attributes the success of the efforts made by England and France, mostly to Mr. Chamberlain, whom millions bless for preventing mankind's destruction. Thousands of Norwegians signed an address of homage. All Oslo is singing Mr. Chamberlain's praises.

Belgium proposes ■to organise a thanksgiving day in honour of Mr. Chamberlain, and all Holland is rejoicing.

(British Official Wireless.)

(Received October 1, 2.30 p.m.)

RUGBY, September 30,

Messages from other capitals describe tributes accorded by public men and public opinion to Mr. Chamberlain's great efforts for peace. Resolutions of congratulations have been pouring into Downing Street from public bodies of all kinds and in all parts of the country, and from overseas.