Dear
Lew: Thank you for your letter, which quite accurately expresses the feelings I have toward our British friends.1 We must remember, of course, that in spite of all that has happened, Britain must continue to be our best friend--so I have no intention of using the British Government as a whipping boy.
The worst thing about it all, you didn't mention--namely, that they have been stupid. At least that is my firm conviction. Among other things they have allowed their distrust and hatred of Nasser to blind their judgment and they have used the wrong vehicle for carrying on their fight to deflate him.
Since last July I have constantly kept Anthony informed on the temper of this country, the way the people as well as the Government would look upon their venture, and the disastrous effect that such a move might have on the United Nations and particularly on world opinion.2
The evidence seems clear that France and Israel were parties to concocting a crisis so that there would be a real excuse for Western intervention to save the Canal. The evidence that Britain was a party to this hoax is less persuasive, but certainly they had to know something of what was going on.
In any event, the British and French timing was such as to destroy any contention that they had to move in to protect Canal traffic; the Israeli were turning back to the North and attacking the Gaza Strip before the British and the French could even make a move toward Egypt.
I do hope now that we can start working together effectively.
With renewed thanks for your letter and, as always, warm personal regard, As ever
P.S. I greatly appreciate, too, your telegram of the second.3
