A collection of memoirs that include first-hand reports of the administration of New Zealand's foreign policy in the first half of the 20th century and captivating commentary on a multitude of prominent political figures, Sir Carl Berendsen's journals chronicle the life of the father of New Zealand foreign affairs. As the head of the department of external affairs, high commissioner to Australia, and then ambassador to Washington, he was involved in such major events as the ANZAC pact, preparations for World War II, the formation of the United Nations, and the Japanese Peace Treaty. This compilation underscores the dynamic thinking and gifted writing of a man who has influenced his country in a way that only a small few can match.