New to this discussion, I have yet to see any mention of power. When the French were powerful, their language was the most important at top-level meetings. When the British Empire existed English took the place of French. Now that the USA is the most powerful country, English is the main world language because of the power of the USA, not Britain. Esperanto has no power behind it, so enthusiasts like me must accept that it will not become the second language for all. But it has a place for all who are interested in international communication on a basis of equality; and these are many. Opponents of Esperanto should first qualify in the language, then test its efficacy by participating for at least two years in some of the very many organised Esperanto meetings held all over the world. Otherwise they do not know what they are talking about.