Using newly-available archives, this text examines the process by which what might have been only simple orders to cease fire, at the end of World War I, instead became extensive diplomatic and military instructions to armies and governments.

His final judgement on the armistice with Germany - that it is difficult to see what might have been done differently - is directed both at those who say the German armistice should have been simpler, speedier and more humanitarian and those who claim its terms should have been more severe.