Monday, 1st July

Grahame saw Mme D'Aunay yesterday. She was alone and he had a long talk with her and she told him that she thought I was a Briandist. He I am glad to say completely dispelled that view. It is quite evident therefore that Clemenceau had been under the impression that I was supporting Briand against him which is the very opposite to what I would wish to do.

Sir Joseph Maclay came to see me and had a long talk. He is very satisfied with the position in England and says that it is infinitely better than it has been any time during the last 18 months and they have got everything extremely well organised. He thinks there is not a sufficient grip being kept over the coal question and if we are not careful we shall have a very serious shortage in the winter. He tells me that it is very difficult to get the exact facts about the Americans as their reports vary from day to day but he is hopeful within the year they may get 2½ millions which is about the amount they promised would be ready at the beginning of this year. They are very difficult to deal with as they want us to do everything for them but he is gradually getting that right. Another of his troubles is one which I know of and that is shortage of wagons at Ports, but that is entirely French mismanagement which is being gradually remedied. Altogether things seem from this point of view most satisfactory.

Attended Luncheon given by Mr. Philip Roy, Canadian Commissioner in honour of Dominion Day. I had to make a short speech. I sat next to Viviani at luncheon. Interesting man and I believe a real born orator. It was very interesting talking to him about Joffre. He is a tremendous believer in him. Thinks he has been very hardly used and it is quite evident if he had his way he would put him back in Foch's place. Has a high opinion of Foch but considers that Foch's proper place, where he would do the best work, is as subordinate to Joffre. He tells me that a very great number of people are of the same opinion and I believe that to be correct.