This book is a timely contribution to contemporary historical writing. We are near enough to the stirring events of the occupation for these writers to remember clearly without the distortion of passing years what they saw and experienced, and we are far enough from them to be able to comment objectively and dispassionately. It is well to assemble this record as a guide to future conduct.

This story of the sacrifices and heroism of the Belgian people during the years of German occupation written by those who were there and saw it with their own eyes cannot leave one unmoved. A strong feeling of admiration for Belgium comes over one, accompanied by the insistent thought that somehow a program must be perfected which will compensate for the losses suffered and provide a guarantee against their recurrence.

It is particularly fortunate that this book is published in English. This will permit English speaking people, and particularly Americans, to enlarge their knowledge and refresh their memories.

A great English writer once said, “Time happily is merciful, and men’s memories are benignly short.” Occasionally I am moved to think that the words “happily” and “benignly” should be omitted. We forget and we forgive, and we do each too quickly. I am not one of those who urge the destruction of Germany, but, as my Belgian friends well know, I am one of those who feel deeply that the future of European economy and the demands [...]