Date: May 19, 1931
Location: Northampton, MA
(Original document available here)
Apparently it will again be demonstrated that the worst things do not happen. Much anxiety has arisen over international differences concerning the proposed customs union between Germany and Austria. A serious impasse was feared when the question came up for discussion among the powers at Geneva. But without difficulty five most vitally interested nations have indicated that the preliminary subject of legality should go to the World Court.
It would be difficult to provide a better illustration of the great importance as an instrument of good will and peace of that high tribunal. Germany and Austria claim a right to make a treaty. Other nations claim that such action violates a treaty made with them. With the present state if European feeling a diplomatic decision would be most difficult. But the interpretation of treaties is usually the clearest kind of judicial question. It appears so in this case. As the result of the existence of a court of competent jurisdiction, instead of a long dispute with a threat of force over technicalities we have the orderly process of reason and law. Such a settlement of international disputes is of inestimable value.
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.