Mandarin - Softcover

Henderson, Nicholas

3.5

6 ratings by Goodreads

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1842120719 ISBN 13: 9781842120712

Publisher: Phoenix, 2000

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Nicholas Henderson, invariably referred to by the American Press as an unconventional diplomat, describes what life is like for a member of the Foreign Service in the modern age in a series of vivid diary sketches. He opens with a glimpse of the blighted existence behind the Iron. From there to Germany and four-power responsibility for Berlin. In France relations were coloured with Britain's coolness towards Europe and her poor economic performance. Henderson was involved in the Airbus negotiations and in promoting trade, including an evening of Haggis-tasting. Serving in Washington under Presidents Carter and Reagan, he was an eyewitness to the development of Mrs Thatcher's special rapport with Reagan. He was also closely engaged in securing US support for Britain in the Falklands War. He is not defensive about the role and responsibility of a diplomat today, despite the development of communications and of international institutions, the plethora of summit meetings and of ministerial visits. There is no substitute for the man on the spot, even if the nature of his work had greatly changed. Conversations are given as they took place. Many entries are light-hearted. The hazard and gaffes inseparable from the roller-coaster career are recorded without inhibition. The diaries are lit by the glitter of balls and embassies and banquets at Windsor Castle. The diary reflects the alternating currents of service and adventure inherent in membership of the Foreign Service.

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Book Description:

An entertaining and revealing account of an Ambassador's life today, from the author's time in Warsaw, Bonn, Paris, and Washington.

About the Author:

Nicholas Henderson was born in London, 1 April 1919. The son of Hubert Henderson, later professor of Political Economy at Oxford and Warden of All Souls College, Oxford; educated at Stowe school, Hertford College, Oxford (Honorary Fellow 1975, Honorary Degree Dr. of Civil Law 1987). Member of the Diplomatic Service 1946-79; served in Chanceries in the USA, Greece, Austria and Chile; Private Secretary to Foreign Secretary 1963-65; Minister in Spain 1965-69; Ambassador to Poland 1969-72, Germany 1972-75, and France 1975-79 and was Ambassador to Washington after retirement 1979-82. Chairman Channel Tunnel Group 1985-86. Trustee of the National Gallery 1985-89. Lord Warden of the Stannaries of the Duchy of Cornwall and vice-chairman of the Prince of Wales' council 1985-90. Former or present director of a number of companies including Hambros, Tarmac, Sotheby's and Foreign and Colonial Investment Trust. In 1951 he married Mary Barber, nee Cawadias. They live in London.

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