The Belgians speak two languages, Flemish (in Flanders) and French (in Wallonia). Having two languages does not seem to bother them, for they seem to know both equally well, and sometimes they even change from one to another in the middle of a sentence. Furthermore, many speak English and even German. It was disappointing for some of the party, who had hoped to use their French, over which so many weary hours had been spent, to find that so many Belgians, like the waitress and proprietor of the Hotel Wellington, insisted on speaking English. There were, as might be expected, the times when one launched forth into French, and received an English reply. But of course when we started in English we were usually met with an uncomprehending stare. From the many conversations we had with the Belgians, we were able to get some idea of Belgian opinion. The Belgians, for the most part seem to have no time for the Communists. The two parties are the Socialists, and the Catholic-backed Government party, who have wide support. The Belgians are fairly politically minded. I was told by a Belgian, that they particularly resented British interference in the dispute over the monarchy last year. We were given ample opportunity to shop, or at any rate window gaze in all the large towns. The large stores e.g., L'Innovation and Bon Marche, where much time was spent on the escalators and lifts, were the most popular; confectionery shops came a close second, though many mouths watered, many more were full of the marvellous variety of sweets. The large proportion of British and American goods was very striking, but, unfortunately, many of us found that after a couple of days' ecstasy we were left to look ruefully at our few remaining francs. Finally a note must be made upon the beauty of some of the characteristic products of Belgium, e.g., the brassware of the Dinant area and the lace of Bruges and Brussels.
C.C.F. NOTES This term has been, as usual, fully occupied with the various examinations. On 19th March the Annual Certificate "A" Examination was held. There were 66 candidates from the Basic Section for Part I and 30 from the Army Section for Part II. The result of the examination was very satisfactory. In Part I, 58 passed and in Part II, 25. The high standard that the majority reached this year is indicated by the number who passed with distinction, six in Part I—Firth, Maxwell, Seaton, Ibberson, Kent and Haxby—and six in Part II41
