Strong in Will

A detailed and vivid diary recount the wartime experience in Paris during the occupation of France.

“Paris of today is not a happy ground for ill and dying or for those with frayed nerves and unquiet minds. It is for the brave of heart, the courageous, and the strong in will and in health. The times, so full of danger, must be lived by the ‘sword of the Spirit,’ with love and an inner calm. It is not possible otherwise.”—Marie-Louise Dilkes, 30 August 1940

There have been many books written about life in Paris during the Occupation. What makes this book unique is that it is written from the perspective of the receptionist for the American Embassy in Paris. The receptionist is Marie-Louise Dilkes, who saw and experienced the chaos and fear of those facing an uncertain future. They walked through the door to the American Embassy looking for a sign of hope or a way out.

Marie-Louise Dilkes takes us from not only the conquest and occupation of Paris by German forces but includes the war-time journey of the American consulate in Paris from Paris to Lisbon to Lyon to Bern and back to Paris. She ends with the triumphant return of members of the American Embassy staff, after the Allies forced the German Army out of Paris, and the reestablishment of the American Embassy in Paris.

Table of Contents

Preface

Introduction

The US Embassy in Paris

August 25, 1939–June 14, 1940—Turbulent Times

June 15–December 31, 1940—The Occupation

January 1, 1941–June 3, 1941—Relocates to Vichy

June 4, 1941–July 20, 1941—The Embassy in Paris Becomes a Consulate

July 20, 1941–December 26, 1941—American Consulate Leaves Paris

Epilogue

Notes

Glossary

Bibliography

Acknowledgements

Index