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- page four free would be only a sham. The advantage for the G_rmans would be, that according to the thought of Hoffman, the rela= tions between the Saar and France would be re-negociated after the plebiscite. Among the technical sugzestions for the free plebiscite there is one point too, which is striking German observers as interesting t the provision, that all outside influences should be banned during the plebiscite fight. The Germans here are asking, whether in the mind of Hoffmen this means only the banning of all G,rman influence, or whether it is genuinely meant. Be it asit may. From an international point of view one thing has been gained t the Freneh and the Germans, the Sear Governement and the @“rmans are talking again. The points of view have gotten much closer already, and the possibility of a mutually acceptable compromise lcoks rather hopeful- The American pressure 4s working in that direction. And the French interest Rien the seme, especially since the French begin to realize that their position onthe Saar becomes untenable. The days of the present Saar R gime are certainly counted. The question only is : how mich of°it can be saved in a fubure European Status ? Because it certainly would be a pity, if the Saar would remain in some unsatisfactory form as a bone of contention between France and G rmanye
