August 31, 2013.

Syria Foreign Ministry Dismisses Kerry's Evidence

"Of course we can't afford to take chances," agreed Winston dutifully.

The U.S. findings, based on intercepted communications, satellite images and human spying, were released to underpin Mr. Obama's assertions that the Assad regime was responsible for the attack, which according to the U.S. conclusions killed 1,429 people, including more than 400 children.

"What I mean to say, there is a war on," said Parsons.

"I am very clear that the world generally is war-weary," Mr. Obama said on Friday. "The American people understandably want us to be focused on the business of rebuilding our economy here and putting people back to work. And I assure you nobody ends up being more war-weary than me."

As though in confirmation of this, a trumpet call floated from the telescreen just above their heads. However, it was not the proclamation of a military victory this time, but merely an announcement from the Ministry of Plenty.

Mr. Obama continued seeking international support, speaking Friday afternoon with French President François Hollande, who said----the morning after the possibility of British military help was quashed by a parliamentary vote----that his country was ready to respond.