"I assume no authority with which to give orders, mon Herr, it was merely an express wish to see you not shrink away from a unpleasant confrontation.".
He shifted in his seat; these overly plush chairs offered practically nothing in terms of back support, and he'd always disliked them for it, but replacing them would be an extravagance he would not allow himself.
"I can understand second part; such grave injuries would color anyone's view of the world and the people in it to some degree, but I am somewhat puzzled by the first. Acts of love and betrayal are individual acts, not collective, and an entire country should not be condemned for them."
He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees.
"Your formative education on the French has been severely lacking, Herr Varner." He reached a hand across the table. "If you'll allow, I would like to rectify that situation."