Date: February 27, 1931
Location: Northampton, MA
(Original document available here)
In addition to the apparent escape of the Spanish people from the ravages of disorder and revolution, the encouraging news comes from Europe that there is a good prospect of a naval agreement between France and Italy. Nothing could be more reassuring to the real friends of Europe in this country than concrete actions demonstrating that the desire for peace through mutual good understandings and concessions is the predominant sentiment of the Continental people.
It is seldom that even an event of great importance can bring on war between nations unless the way has been prepared by a long series of disagreements over comparatively trifling incidents. If the little disputes are adjusted as they arise, a general condition of friendship exists between people of different countries so that they are immune from the contagion of the serious maladies of hostility.
These recent developments indicate clearly that in spite of some friction and some intemperate language the people of Europe have a strong underlying public opinion in favor of peaceable adjustment. That sentiment will produce more security than great squadrons and heavy battalions. Common sense is saving the day.
Citation: Calvin Coolidge Says: Dispatches Written by Former-President Coolidge and Syndicated to Newspapers in 1930-1931 (Calvin Coolidge Memorial Foundation)
The Coolidge Foundation gratefully acknowledges the volunteer efforts of Robert Manchester who prepared this document for digital publication.