IRAN: The Rhythm Recurs

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Possibly, too, she planned a sphere-of-influence solution like the Anglo-Russian Convention of 1907, which solved nothing. More likely was the less ambitious aim of a Communist-controlled, autonomous Az erbaijan with a pro-Soviet Government in Teheran. These would be enough to secure her exposed southern flank.

In Iran, last week were three foreign armies — Russians in the north, British and Americans in the south. All were there by agreement; all by agreement should leave not later than next March 2. The U.S. contingent of nearly 4,000 men, smallest of the three, was preparing to depart by the end of the year. The other two would stay until due date, presumably to buttress their Government's diplomacy.

If the U.S. did not back Britain against Russia, the Shah, Mohamed Reza Pahlevi, with the fatalism of his race, might well ponder the philosophy of inevitability. Without much help from the Shah, Iran's fate would probably be decided at Mos cow's Big Three meeting. Nor was it likely that sweet reason would play much part in the settlements.

The gentle Omar had said it well enough : Myself when young did eagerly frequent Doctor and Saint, and heard great argument About it and about: but evermore Came out by the same door as in I went.