43

On July 29, Signor Benito Mussolini will be 44; but last week the Associated Press reported that Il Duce, at two score and three, already manifests a species of partiality usually characteristic of older men, as follows:

"Whereas bankers, statesmen and other personages often fail of audiences [with Mussolini] . . . young girl visitors from the United States and England are almost certain to be ushered quickly to the Duce's presence. . . .

"Americans who come to Italy with the intention of obtaining an audience with the Premier should not rely on their importance or face to guarantee fulfillment of the wish, but should bring their daughters with a bevy of debutante friends. . . ."